Research/Lab Technician I - Engineering

Position Summary
The Pathak Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science at Washington University has an immediate job opening for an individual to work in the cellular mechanobiology research group. The successful candidate has the opportunity to pursue and assist with research projects studying how normal and cancer cells migrate in various soft environments and perform atomic force microscopy of cells and tissues. The successful candidate will also assist in the following areas: imaging techniques such as fluorescence, confocal, and atomic force microscopy; biomaterials and hydrogel synthesis; cell culture and molecular biology.

Job Description

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Organize the lab, order supplies, schedule maintenance of equipment, ensure lab safety compliance, and perform day-to-day laboratory procedures.
• Perform techniques in one (or more) of the following areas: atomic force microscopy, other imaging, hydrogel synthesis, and cell culture.
• Assist with at least one research project in collaboration with another lab member.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Prior research experience in biomedical engineering or cell biology/physiology research lab.
• Prior research experience in cell culture, microscopy techniques, and soft materials.
• Prior research experience in image analysis of cells/tissues.
• Experience in basic statistics.
• Experience using Microsoft Word/Excel.
• Experience with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), maintaining microscopes, and/or hydrogel synthesis (polyacrylamide, collagen).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate with laboratory staff and investigators.
• Ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent high school certification.

Grade
R04-H

Salary Range
$15.76 - $21.09 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

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