Research Technician III

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A Brief Overview
This role participates in planned research projects by performing research protocols with minimal direction and guidance from the principal investigator, program director or senior scientists. May exercise moderate discretion and judgment in the execution and interpretation of experiments, and of data derived.

About the Laboratory

We are seeking a highly motivated individual for a Research Technician III in the laboratory of Karla Leavens, M.D., Ph.D. in the Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The position involves working alongside a physician scientist investigating diabetes pathogenesis with significant translational implications. Our research focuses on using human cell models to study diabetes, including use of pancreatic beta cells differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells and cadaveric human islets. We are part of the Research Institute at CHOP, which fosters a multidisciplinary approach among researchers and scientists working to discover new gene and cell therapies in search of cures for debilitating and life-threatening disorders.

Laboratory experience and familiarity with basic molecular laboratory techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, tissue culture, and DNA/RNA isolation are preferred. The technician will be trained in stem cell culture and differentiation, flow cytometry, molecular cloning, including CRISPR/Cas9, and other advanced cellular and molecular biology techniques as needed. Prior experience in any of these specialties is a plus. Specific duties will also include the maintenance and differentiation of human stem cell lines, performing experiments on these cells as directed, and maintaining appropriate laboratory notebooks, records, and protocols. The candidate will focus on pancreatic endocrine cell development to develop in vitro models of diabetes. We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-driven individual, who is committed to learning and working with a team to contribute to advances in biology and medicine. The candidate will be capable of effective data recording, demonstrate good organizational and communication skills.

What you will do

• Performs research procedures on experimental samples with minimal supervision
• Formulates and performs complex lab experiments and analyzes/ reports the data
• Performs tasks that require knowledge of advanced techniques and lab equipment
• Performs advanced calculations and maintains appropriate log and lab notebooks
• Assists with planning specific research protocols and procedures
• Assists in development & troubleshooting of new techniques and ideas
• May be required to modify scientific methods and protocols (in conjunction with PI)
• Checks others' results for completeness and accuracy
• May be responsible for training and mentoring new staff
• May assist in the preparation of grants journal articles, posters and oral presentations
• May perform routine and non-routine tests / experiments as needed
• Maintains office, lab area, reagents, supplies and equipment
• Performs routine maintenance on lab equipment
• Coordinates schedules of tests & procedures
• Attends courses, seminars, and lab meetings to expand knowledge of research and laboratory techniques
• Records results, organizes data and maintains lab notebook in an organized manner
• Conducts literary searches as required

Education Qualifications

• High School Diploma / GED Required
• Bachelor's Degree Preferred

Experience Qualifications

• At least two (2) years of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (eg. Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience - Required
• At least three (3) years of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (eg. Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience - Preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Advanced understanding of lab procedures, protocols, and equipment.
• Intermediate proficiency with lab specific experiments / techniques.
• Intermediate scientific analysis skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Strong critical thinking / problem-solving skills
• Strong analytical skills

To carry out its mission, CHOP is committed to supporting the health of our patients, families, workforce, and global community. As a condition of employment, professionals working onsite-at any CHOP location, for any portion of time-must be vaccinated for COVID-19. Learn more.

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