Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Performs advanced laboratory techniques and procedures in a research laboratory. May provide veterinary technical support for animal model studies.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry or other scientific discipline or equivalency required; Plus two years full-time laboratory experience. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required. Working knowledge of advanced scientific techniques and procedures as well as the ability to make statistical calculations, analyze results, prepare reports and perform specialized tests also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated vaccination requirements, or be approved for an exemption, prior to the first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Performs and directs specialized and complex lab tests, experiments and surgical procedures for studies.
2. Assists the Principal Investigator in the design, implementation and performance of new protocols and procedures as well as the modification of existing techniques.
3. Reviews scientific journals, abstracts and other literature for information concerning experimental procedures.
4. Makes advanced statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results.
5. Operates complex and highly specialized laboratory and surgical instruments and equipment. Instructs others in their use.
6. Maintains a log of supplies used in procedures.
7. May supervise, train and review the work of laboratory personnel.
8. May prepare equipment and rooms for studies.
9. May assist with preparing budgets.

Problem Solving

The Lab Specialist assists in the development of research protocols and designs. Modifies and implement procedures. Records and interprets research results. The incumbent works independently, under the general supervision of most senior laboratory personnel. Work may include training and supervising other laboratory personnel, who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. Problems that cannot be resolved by the incumbent will be referred to the most senior Lab personnel.

Comments

Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).

Seldom: Exposure to animals.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting. 

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.