Research Specialist II

Lab for Infectious Disease Res

Job Description:
The Laboratory for Infectious Disease Research's Animal Infection and Monitoring Services (AIMS) team is looking for a Research Specialist II. AIMS supports work on agents up to BSL-3 in a variety of animal models and routes of infection with access to up-to-date instrumentation.

The LIDR animal facility is AALAC accredited, with 2,478 square feet of updated ABSL-3 space in two independent suites, each with two housing rooms and a dedicated procedure room. The holding rooms at LIDR are suitable for animals from small rodents up to small livestock. This position requires the attention to detail necessary to work safely with high consequence pathogens in a high-containment facility. Some work will require use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including a respirator. All work must be done in compliance with university, state, and federal guidelines and regulations

AIMS offers one-on-one consultations, animal model development and refinement services, study support, sample processing and analysis and support for grant and manuscript preparation. This position is expected to work as part of a team including additional technical staff. An understanding of research principles and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is expected.

Key Responsibilities:

• Gather data according to experimental design
• Conduct animal research under guidance
• Follow established protocols for testing of generated samples
• Analysis and evaluation of research results
• Maintain inventory and experimental records
• Restock and order supplies
• Communication of important information to stakeholders including research team and supervisors

In addition, the individuals will:

• Develop a working knowledge of BSL-2 and BSL-3 practices and select agent regulations
• Handle biohazardous samples at BSL-2 and BSL-3 using established protocols
• Participate in training as required by the University and LIDR biosafety officer (BSO), including EHS, ACUC, and advanced trainings in biosafety
• Assist in the annual recertification of LIDR and its Core facilities and other tasks as required
  

Monday - Friday, 8am-5pm

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

ALAT, LAT, or LATG

Qualifications:
BS in biology, microbiology, or related field and one year of relevant work experience
4 years clinical laboratory or laboratory animal research experience may substitute for degree

Employment will be contingent on the individual's ability to obtain and maintain authorization to work with select agents through a Federal Select Agent Program security risk assessment and meet personnel suitability requirements. The individual must also obtain the required medical clearances to work with animals and infectious agents. Additional, acceptance of vaccinations and medical monitoring as required by the Occupational Health and Safety Program is a condition of employment.

Candidate will occasionally need to lift >25 pounds or perform actions requiring similar physical strength and capability.

Successful candidates will have exceptional organizational and time management skills. They must demonstrate the following durable skills : collaboration, communication, critical thinking, mindfulness, growth mindset, and fortitude. Additionally, confidentiality, integrity, and a commitment to the university's values.

Salary Range: $18.50 - $30.00 per hour
Grade: GGS 008
University Title: Research Specialist II
Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Cover letter and resume.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.