The Stanford University Protein and Nucleic Acid (PAN) Facility in the Beckman Center is seeking a Life Science Research Professional (LSRP2) to join our highly multidisciplinary group. The Beckman Center's PAN facility is a multifaceted biotechnology core facility providing access to key tools and applications to researchers through Stanford University and other research institutions, both non-profit and biopharmaceutical.
The LSRP2 will work with Stanford researchers to plan and execute genomic technology, and molecular biology experiments as well as participate in other lab activities. The LSRP2 will work independently on multiple projects simultaneously. The LSRP2 should possess an aptitude for learning new technologies to support the needs of a variety of research projects. The LSRP2 must have the ability to recognize irregularities in experimental results and modify protocols as needed. The position requires an individual who is meticulous, highly organized, works efficiently, can prioritize projects and can effectively interact with a large number of diverse researchers from different scientific disciplines. The core facility environment requires this person to be proactive, cooperative, and willing to work with other facility staff as well as other Stanford investigators.
Duties include:
- Responsible for Nucleic Acid QC (Agilent Bioanalyzer, Fragment Analyzer) processing client RNA/DNA samples for Real-time PCR singleplex and multiplex assays analysis, DNA sequencing and Fragment Analysis (ABI DNA analyzers) and Pyrosequencing (Qiagen, PyroMark) using molecular biology procedures.
- Development of QPCR-based applications to address biological questions including primer design, their validation and optimization in real-time PCR reactions.
- Interpret and analyze results of Nucleic Acid QC, Real-time PCR, DNA Sequencing and Fragment Analysis data often where few guidelines exist and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.
- Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required.
- Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s).
- Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to investigators.
- Perform routine equipment calibration and maintenance where required.
- Troubleshooting of instrument performance and ordering repairs when necessary to meet the advertised turnaround time.
- Work with vendors and customers to implement technical protocols.
- Directly assist members of other teams within the genomics and protein biochemistry groups so that production goals and throughput requirements are met.
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
- Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.
- Compile and maintain records of samples and archive of results in a timely fashion.
- Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings.
- Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences.
- Oversee supply and equipment budget under supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
- Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
- Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work.
- Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
- Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
- May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related field.
- Experience in molecular biology experimentation with an aptitude for learning new technologies.
- Ability to adapt to different working environments and to work with diverse collaborators.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in Biology or related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in Biology or a related scientific field and two years relevant experience; or PhD in Biology or related science field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
- Expert level knowledge and skills in multiplexed IF staining and imaging using clinical tissue sections (FFPE and FF).
- General computer skills, experience with data/image analysis and scientific applications, and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
- Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
- Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with general guidance is essential.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
- Developing project management skills.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
WORK STANDARDS:
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
- Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
- Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
