Research Technician I

POSITION SUMMARY:

Dr. Fabbri's lab at Children's National is recruiting a Research Technician I. The RT-I conducts research under Dr. Fabbri's direction. Dr. Fabbri's lab studies the role of microRNAs and other non-coding RNAs in cancer biology and the role of extracellular vesicles in cell-to-cell communication. The RT-I performs a variety of routine and specialized laboratory tests, specimen preparations and experimental procedures for the purpose of research as directed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required experience in the following techniques:

• Mammalian cell culture/propagation/freezing
• Mycoplasma testing of cultured cells
• Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell isolation from peripheral blood
• Mammalian cell transfection of microRNAs, siRNAs
• Familiarity with viral systems to perform stable gene transduction to mammalian cells
• PCR and all aspects of cloning (bacteria propagation of plasmids, mini/maxi preps etc...)
• Quantitative Real-Time PCR
• Western blotting and ELISA
• Immuno-precipitation of RNA/protein (or ability to follow a provided protocol for IP)
• FACS
• In vivo work with murine models: subcutaneous and orthotopic injections of cells, ability to perform intravenous/intraperitoneal/subcutaneous injections in mice, ability to perform in vivo imaging with bioluminescence devices (such as IVIS or similar), ability to accurately measure tumor growth with a caliper

Desired experience in:

• Droplet-digital PCR
• CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing
• Isolation and characterization of exosomes and other extracellular vesicles
• Ability to generate nanoparticles for specific delivery of therapeutic cargo to target cells

Minimum Education
Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree with a major in basic science or related field desired. (Preferred)

Minimum Work Experience
1 year At least 1-2 years of related experience desired. No supervisory experience required. (Preferred)

Required Skills/Knowledge
Strong mathematical skills and an inquisitive attitude.
Basic knowledge of lab safety and use of basic lab equipment desired.

Functional Accountabilities
Responsible Conduct of Research

• Consistently demonstrates adherence to the standards for the responsible conduct of research.

• Plans, conducts and manages research projects within federal and institutional regulations and policies under the direction of the principal investigator.

• Uses research funds and resources appropriately.

• Maintains confidentiality of data as required.

• Meets all annual job-related training and compliance requirements.

Laboratory Work

• Performs routine tests under the direction of principal investigator or supervisor.

• Records and checks results for completeness and accuracy.

• Conducts literature search as requested.

• Performs tasks that may require familiarity with fundamental techniques and equipment.

• Compiles information from lab notebooks and journals.

• Attends courses, seminars and lab meetings to expand knowledge of research and laboratory technique.

Project Planning

• Assists with planning specific research protocols and procedures.

• Coordinates schedules of tests and procedures.

• Assists staff in developing and troubleshooting new techniques and ideas.

Recordkeeping

• Maintains a log of work performed.

• Prepares charts, graphs and results of studies; compiles and helps analyze data.

• Maintains all required records, reports, statistics, etc.; prepares summary reports as requested.
• Maintains and updates department policies regarding procedures, objectives, safety, etc.
• Anticipate and responds to customer needs; follows up until needs are met

Teamwork/Communication

• Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior

• Partner with all team members to achieve goals

• Receptive to others' ideas and opinions

Performance Improvement/Problem-solving

• Contribute to a positive work environment

• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to change

• Identify opportunities to improve clinical and administrative processes

• Make appropriate decisions, using sound judgment

Cost Management/Financial Responsibility

• Use resources efficiently

• Search for less costly ways of doing things

Safety

• Speak up when team members appear to exhibit unsafe behavior or performance

• Continuously validate and verify information needed for decision making or documentation

• Stop in the face of uncertainty and takes time to resolve the situation

• Demonstrate accurate, clear and timely verbal and written communication

• Actively promote safety for patients, families, visitors and co-workers

• Attend carefully to important details - practicing Stop, Think, Act and Review in order to self-check behavior and performance