Research Technician, Biological Sciences (Tate Lab) Position Available In Davidson, Tennessee

Research Technician, Biological Sciences (Tate Lab) 3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars 1211 MEDICAL CENTER DRIVE, Nashville, TN 37232 Job Description The Tate lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University is seeking a motivated and conscientious Research Technician to perform laboratory tasks and experiments related to the evolution of immune systems and host-microbe interactions. Basic laboratory skills and excellent record keeping habits are necessary. Reporting directly to the Principal Investigator, the Research Technician will collaborate with other lab members to pursue the scientific goals of the laboratory. The primary responsibilities for this position include performing experiments, taking care of invertebrate organisms, and supporting day-to-day laboratory maintenance, inventory, and operations, including frequent communication with other lab members. The candidate should be capable of performing tasks and protocols with minimal supervision after receiving training, and should be willing to troubleshoot failed procedures, including consultation of the primary literature. The candidate will be expected to attend laboratory meetings and be a scientifically engaged and collaborative member of the lab, including assisting with training and experimental support to other lab members. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required. The Tate lab is a dynamic group of students, postdoctoral fellows, and staff interested in the ecology and evolution of immune systems and infectious diseases. The group is highly collaborative, and values frequent communication, feedback, and respect among lab members. The Tate lab is part of the Department of Biological Sciences, which has an excellent staff to facilitate issue resolution involving personnel, financial management, supply and equipment orders proposal submission, and infrastructure. The faculty in the department carry out diverse research projects and often collaborate with other members within the department and in nearby departments. This department covers a broad spectrum of biology, from molecules and cells to tissues and organisms to populations and ecosystems. Award-winning faculty and graduate students teach and carry out research in Biochemistry, Structural Biology and Biophysics, Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Duties and Responsibilities 1. Under moderate supervision, run experiments, assays, and record results (75% time) Read and follow experimental protocols (May include handling of animals and microbes and nucleic acid handling, etc.) Recognize problems and work with supervisor to come up with solutions Compile and communicate results to supervisor Follow University safety protocols (may include use of combustibles, toxic material, and/or carcinogenics) Perform calculations necessary for serial dilutions, media preparation, and sample handling 2. Ensure smooth and effective laboratory operations (25% time) Make common lab reagents and solutions as required Maintain inventories and order supplies as needed Ensure proper working order of equipment Maintain invertebrate organism stocks and experimental populations Assist with training and experimental logistics for other lab members Communicate frequently with other lab members Keep order records and documentation according to Department guidelines Serve as an emergency contact (e.g. in case of -80C failure). Help the PI to ensure all safety codes and documentation in the lab are up to date according to University guidelines. 3. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications A B.S. or B.A. degree in biology or a related field is necessary. Knowledge of basic laboratory practices and techniques, as obtained through undergraduate study or other research experience, is required. Previous experience in a research lab is required. Previous experience working with insects OR basic molecular biology techniques (e.g. nucleic acid extraction, PCR) is required. Supervisory Relationships The Research Technician will be responsible for monitoring day to day technical practices of students in the lab and training undergraduate and new graduate students in basic lab techniques. This position reports administratively to the Departmental Administrative Manager and functionally to the PI, Ann Tate.