Research Scientist & Cell Assay Specialist

Role Summary

Research Scientist & Cell Assay Specialist

Responsibilities

• Maintains cell line cultures (growth, extraction of specimens)
• Prepares specimens for analysis; aliquots, transports and distributes specimens
• Maintains tracking information for specimens
• Coordinates prioritization, receipt and delivery of laboratory specimens
• Verifies accurate documentation relative to specimen processing
• Accepts or rejects specimens according to established standards and performs specimen investigation procedures to resolve lab specimen issues or problems
• Runs RNA and protein assays with necessary troubleshooting
• Demonstrates an understanding of the theory and scientific principles of laboratory testing as well as the technical, procedural and problem-solving aspects
• Performs and interprets tests at all complexity levels
• Correlates abnormal laboratory data with pathological states, determines the validity of test results and the need for additional tests
• Determines the validity of test results through the monitoring and/or verifying of quality controls, standards, etc
• Communicates test results, reference ranges, specimen requirements, and other pertinent information to authorized sources
• Assumes responsibility for good documentation practices and maintains clear and legible records
• Accumulates data from analyses, prepares charts, graphs, statistical tables for presentation to Research Staff Supervisor for final analysis
• The successful candidate will assist with general lab duties, protocols and compliance responsibilities, and will be proactively involved in assigned research
• Maintains instrumentation and equipment along with its cleanliness
• Performs preventive maintenance and record keeping procedures
• Maintains appropriate workstation supplies and inventory
• Develops and designs multiple assays for screening in-vitro and in-vivo biological targets
• Collects and interprets data for biomarker and biological characterization assays including cell-based, multiplexed protein assays, polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry methods
• Develops biochemical assays for lead validation and optimization for disease-related targets to predict outcome in supporting development by enabling earlier decision making, reducing investment risk and avoiding late phase failures
• Emphasis may be development of biochemical assays for high throughput screening. May oversee screening operations, including scheduling, assay performance and data flow
• May work with manufacturing and quality control to develop tests, as well as analyze and report results
• Prepares technical reports, summaries, protocols and quantitative analyses

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology preferred; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of two years of progressive lab experience (independent/leading role preferred); 5+ years preferred
• Typical physical demands include visual acuity and the ability to distinguish colors; manual dexterity to handle specimens diagnose/troubleshoot equipment; may require extended periods of sitting, standing and walking, light lifting may be required

Skills

• Laboratory techniques and assay development
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Documentation and reporting
• Quality control and compliance
• Team collaboration and communication

Education

• Bachelor’s degree required (specific science discipline as listed above); Master’s degree preferred

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation