Lab Research Technician I

The Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Division of the DOM is hiring for a Lab Research Technician. The division is led by division chief Alison Morris, MD and Executive Administrator Emily Joseph. The division is made of up approximately 70 clinical staff and over 100 research staff who work in a variety of locations including: Bridgeside Point, Biomedical Science Tower (BST), and UPMC Hospitals including Presbyterian, Shadyside, East, Jameson, and Mercy. The division provides world class services across 10 inpatient services at five hospitals and over 70,000 outpatient office visits. We have a major research mission that focuses on basic, clinical, and translational research on the lung, microbiome, COVID-19, sleep medicine, and allergy and immunology.

The incumbent will support the system development efforts on modeling Down syndrome immune dysregulation and organ pathophysiology in Organs-on-Chips. A successful applicant will have a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical/electrical engineering or a related field, with a background in basic electrical/electronic engineering and experience in CAD design software such as SolidWorks. Experience or willingness to learn about mechanical design and fabrication, and photolithography and micromachining is a plus. The applicant should be independent and motivated to execute research project partially independently and report to supervisors.

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

Essential Functions 

• Performing system engineering encompassing design, integration, and operation of to-be-developed and currently under-developed systems.
• Utilizing appropriate software including but not limited to CAD and SolidWorks.
• Applying machining, micromachining, photolithography, and PCB design/development/testing.
• Supporting research data collection and analysis.
• Working closely with other lab members, especially assigned senior member of the lab who will provide technical guidance and mentorship.
• Adhering to high standards of professional integrity and reliability, delivering project milestones on time, and demonstrating excellent communications skills.
• Showing interest in receiving feedback on their progress and professional development.

Standing for up to 8 hours, working in wet bench lab space standing and sitting, ability to receive and move deliveries to the lab, and ability to follow all necessary research and operation protocols.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.