Research Technician II - Pediatrics
The laboratory of Dr. Melissa Mavers studies graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), an immune-mediated complication of stem cell transplantation. Through transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional analyses of immune regulatory cells, the Mavers Lab seeks to enhance understanding of the role of immunosuppressive cells in GVHD. Her laboratory has the goal of using a bench-to-bedside approach for developing a cellular therapy for GVHD, engineering viable approaches to prevention and cure.
The successful candidate will assist with the technical aspects of studies and experiments including documentation and preparation of materials. This work will primarily involve the investigation of a type of innate lymphocyte, the invariant natural killer T cell, which is of interest due to its potential ability to suppress GVHD and promise as a therapeutic. Analyses will include flow cytometry/fluorescence activated cell sorting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, other bead-based and colorimetric assays, and RNA-sequencing; therefore, this position requires excellent laboratory record keeping skills and may include basic data analysis. Previous tissue culture experience is required, in addition to experience in at least one of the aforementioned assays, with preference given to flow cytometry. Additionally, due to the significance of mouse model experiments for the Mavers Lab, training in murine laboratory techniques and models will also be available. Please note that willingness to work with mice will be required for this role, though prior experience is not necessary.
The Mavers lab strives to provide an environment of growth and support alongside its inclusive culture. We are focused on producing high quality science and are seeking a self-motivated individual capable of performing intricate experiments who is looking to grow and contribute in a highly collaborative environment. Further technical training opportunities range from basic to advanced microbiology and analysis techniques including, but not limited to, cloning, PCR, and viral transduction, as well as the assays listed in detail above. Dr. Mavers also provides career mentorship, opportunities for authorship to all contributing individuals, potential opportunities for independent work, and an overall value towards growing your own scientific acumen and professional repertoire.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Assists with research studies, experiments and assays including collection of data, preparation of solutions and set-up and maintenance of equipment.
- Prepares murine tissue and human tissue for cell culture. Prepares cell culture reagents and maintains cell cultures.
- Manipulates cell cultures for experimentation, including buffy coat preparation, magnetic bead-based cell enrichment, cell expansion, cell differentiation, and plating cells for functional assays.
- Runs assays with readouts in one or more of the following formats: RNA-sequencing, flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and other bead-based and colorimetric assays.
- Generates lentivirus and transduces cells (may include cloning).
- Assists with mouse colony maintenance and participates in murine experiments.
- Performs data entry and maintains data files on research for future publication.
- Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
- Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
- Assists with ordering of necessary equipment and supplies for use in the lab.
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
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate with laboratory staff and investigators.
- Ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
- Working knowledge of computer software and general lab equipment.
- Minimum Requirements
- Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and up to one year of experience in a laboratory setting or an equivalent combination of education and experience equaling four years.
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.