Research Technician II
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit, unified adult cancer care and research center that is clinically integrated with UW Medicine, a world leader in clinical care, research and learning. The first National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in the Pacific Northwest, Fred Hutch’s global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy, and COVID-19 vaccines has confirmed our reputation as one of the world’s leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy, and related services, and network affiliations with hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world’s deadliest diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality.
At Fred Hutch, we believe that the innovation, collaboration, and rigor that result from diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission of eliminating cancer and related diseases. We seek employees who bring different and innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems. Fred Hutch is in pursuit of becoming an antiracist organization. We are committed to ensuring that all candidates hired share our commitment to diversity, antiracism, and inclusion.
A clinical research laboratory of the Program in Immunology is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician whose duties will include both assisting with ongoing research efforts and serving as support for the laboratory. The individual in this position will be responsible for research activities whose primary focus is the isolation and characterization of human CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes that specifically recognize human tumor cells and the identification and characterization of the genes that encode the antigens recognized by these T cells. There will be many opportunities to train and learn about the laboratory and research.
Responsibilities
The Research Technician will be responsible for performing standard and investigative laboratory work in support of scientific research by performing bench-level experiments, operating analytical instruments, recovering, compiling and verifying the accuracy of research data; performing calculations; preparing charts, graphs and summaries.
Performs the duties:
- Perform experiments at the bench level to support investigative work, including but not limited to extraction of genomic DNA, RNA, and synthesis of DNA from primary human cells and cell lines
- Prepare and process molecular samples including bacterial DNA isolation
- Perform and modify documented protocols and assays
- Data Management - document all procedures clearly and extensively
- Interpret and report on experimental results
- Prepare and maintain laboratory reagents, cultures, and mammalian tissue cultures
- Order and maintain appropriate levels of supplies - inventory
- Prepare laboratory biohazard and sharps waste for disposal
- Establish and maintain laboratory standards, ensuring that all laboratory equipment are maintained in good operating condition
- Maintain web-based electronic inventory of cryopreserved cells stored in liquid nitrogen freezers
- Some light clerical duties to assist administrator
- Perform other responsibilities, as required
Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree is required
- Intermediate level position requiring 2 years previous experience working in a laboratory
- Familiarity with molecular biology and basic immunology is essential and highly desired
- Independent research experience in addition to college lab experience is strongly preferred, including experience with mammalian tissue culture and routine molecular biology techniques, such as transformation of bacteria, isolation and purification of DNA and RNA, analysis of DNA and RNA by gel electrophoresis, synthesis of complementary DNA, and amplification of DNA by PCR
- The individual will be trained in all of the techniques used in this position
- To be successful in this laboratory, the technician must have excellent communication skills and be able to work well within an interactive team environment
- This position will require someone who is comfortable working in a lab that utilizes murine models
In addition to job duties at Fred Hutch, this position also requires access to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, which requires COVID-19 vaccination without exceptions.
Accordingly, as a condition of employment for this Fred Hutch position, newly hired employees must provide proof of vaccination before their first day of employment.
A statement describing your commitment and contributions toward greater diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism in your career or that will be made through your work at Fred Hutch is requested of all finalists.
Our Commitment to Diversity
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which diverse perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Affirmative Action employer. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds to apply and desire priority referrals of protected veterans. If due to a disability you need assistance/and or a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to our Employee Services Center at hrops@fredhutch.org or by calling 206-667-4700.