Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Independently performs or directs the performance of highly specialized and complex research where original scientific contributions are expected as a result of acquired experience as a seasoned professional.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience), plus four years of related full-time laboratory experience required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.

A valid Utah's Driver’s License and the ability to single-handedly lift and transport items as heavy as 75lbs is required.

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. Confers with senior laboratory personnel regarding the procedures and techniques to be followed in  conducting research and recommends modifications as needed.
2. Performs tests and procedures using laboratory equipment.
3. Monitors and assists with purchasing of laboratory supplies and materials.
4. Conducts literature reviews to obtain abstracts and information to be utilized in research.
5. Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing results.
6. Packages, ships and delivers specimens, documents or records, or supplies to area clinics in a timely manner.
7. May supervise the care of research animals; perform minor animal surgery or collect animal tissues and specimens for laboratory analysis.
8. May oversee the operations of student course experiments in a laboratory setting.

Problem Solving

This position assists senior laboratory personnel in planning methods and techniques. Work requires exercising independent judgment and basic theoretical knowledge of the applicable science. This position may include limited supervision of entry-level laboratory personnel, who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. If incumbent cannot find a resolution, the situation is referred to the supervisor.

Work is performed in accordance with the supervision of senior laboratory personnel and through periodic conferences with superior.

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. Lifting - up to 75 lbs.  

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead, lifting - over 75lbs.