Research Associate I - Biobank & Pathology

Summary:Working under direct supervision, the Research Associate I performs a variety of routine experimental protocols and procedures to support the objectives of one or more laboratory research projects in a specific area of research. Assists in general laboratory activities, including maintenance of reagents and stocking of supplies. Files and monitors documents. Keeps accurate and detailed records of experiments and results. Assists in the operation of specialized equipment and machinery. Observes safety standards and procedures. The Research Assistant I will be able to perform routine cellular, micro- and molecular biology procedures including, but not limited to Western, Northern blot, DNA/RNA, PCR, protein extraction, cell culture, Immunohistochemistry, and staining. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Performs a variety of routine laboratory tasks and procedures.Keeps accurate and detailed project records of experiments and results.May assist with animal husbandry.Maintains lab equipment and related records.Transports, processes and logs samples.Maintains computer database with relevant clinical information.Performs lab maintenance duties, including glassware cleaning and sterilization.Maintains stocks of general lab materials, and places orders for lab equipment and supplies.Assists new students and fellows at the laboratory.Assists in the operation of specialized equipment and machinery.Observes and complies with safety standards and procedures.EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:Education:Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts Degree in biological sciences.Certification/License:Experience:Understanding of general research objectives.Working knowledge of database management, personal computers, and presentation and imaging software. Understanding of general research objectives. Familiar with routine laboratory procedures and experimental protocols. Must possess computer skills to include, but not limited to, Excel and Word.Education requirements:Bachelors in a Science related field - required

DEPARTMENT AND/OR UNIT SPECIFIC – ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:The primary area of responsibility is collecting, processing and storing of biospecimens from patients who have provided informed consent. Biologic specimens are collected in operating rooms, hospital procedure rooms, or clinics. In addition, clinical information is entered into existing study databases. This person is responsible for monitoring clinic and surgery schedules and being present for collections as the schedule dictates. As an integral member of the research team the technician is expected to participate in development of collection procedures and to perform administrative activities in support of biospecimen collections.The person also helps with QC of biospecimens in the laboratory including RNA extraction and purification, and PBMC/buffy coat isolation and counts.Work duties will include:Perform blood/tissue collection and data collection/entryMonitor operating room schedules (OR)Prepare the collection for receiving biospecimensInteract with OR staff to collect specimensObtain a copy of the signed consentProcess blood according to standard operating procedures (SOP)Work with personnel in the pathology lab to collect tissue according to SOPsMonitor refrigerator, ice and liquid nitrogen levels to ensure safe storage of biological specimens.Enter tissue acquisition parameters into the study databaseEnter data into the study databases in a timely mannerCollect patient clinical data from doctors' officesDetermine if there are opportunities for improving workflow within specified job functions and reporting these to his/her supervisorCarry out specialized isolations of cells, tissue and blood for a range of downstream applications.Carry out QC of biospecimens with a range of histological, cell and molecular biology techniques.Any other duties as defined by BTRC Director/Associate Director.Schedule will require flexibility; morning or afternoon start for the daily weekday shift, potential for some weekend half day shifts (once a month).EDUCATIONAL AND WORK EXPERIENCE PREFERENCES:Some experience (6 months-1 year) in a laboratory environment preferred but training will be given for all duties. Superior organization, time management skills, and the ability to prioritize work demands are essential. Candidates must also be able to work independently with general supervision and as a part of a collaborative team. The ability to communicate effectively, in both written and oral formats, is a must. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are preferred as the position requires working with researchers, vendors, and staff.Physical Requirements (physical abilities essential to perform the job)Ability to carry and lift up to 20 lbs. Ability to stand for up to four hours per day. Ability to sit and use a computer for 4-6 hours at a time.Cedars-Sinai is an EEO employer. Cedars-Sinai does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of the race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition (cancer-related or genetic characteristics or any genetic information), marital status, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age (40 or older), military and/or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal or state law.