Posting Details

Job TitleResearch Technician, COVID-19 LAMP @ RiceDepartmentRice 360: Institute for Global HealthFull Time/Part TimeFull-TimeRequisition NumberS21065Open Date08/21/2020Close Date10/22/2020Salary Information

$48,000 to $52,000 annually

Work Schedule

- Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Occasional evening or weekend work related to projects as required

Benefits EligibleYesEligible for OvertimeNoPosition Summary

The research technician will be responsible for the daily operation of a semi-automated COVID-19 testing workflow. The research technician will work in a fast paced and challenging environment and will be a part of the overall mission to keep the infection rate on the Rice University campus at a manageable level by quickly identifying probable COVID-19 infections as a part of a campus population surveillance research study. The research technician will set up and operate laboratory equipment, prepare materials, perform experimental procedures, record and consolidate research data, and execute planned research activities related to the LAMP @ Rice study at the University. Typical hours will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., but all applicants should have the ability to work between the hours of 8 a.m. and midnight in case shift work is required in the future.

This is a benefits eligible, one-year term limited position with the possibility of extension based upon need and available funding.

Education RequiredBachelor's DegreeMajor/Discipline

Molecular biology, biology, biological sciences or related field

Substitution for Education RequirementExperience may not be substituted for the education requirement.Education Preferred

Training obtained from a formalized molecular diagnostics program

Experience RequiredNo experience requiredType of ExperienceSubstitution for Experience RequirementEducation may not be substituted for the experience requirement.Experience Preferred

- Laboratory experience which may include experience gained as an undergraduate/graduate student or training gained subsequent to graduation
- Experience with biological safety cabinets which may include training as an undergraduate/graduate student
- Previous work in BSL-2 lab and with laboratory automation strongly preferred

License/Certification Required

None

License/Certification PreferredSkills Required

- Listening, verbal and written communication, analytical, and research skills
- Good scientific and numerical skills with meticulous attention to details and accuracy
- Ability to work in a team environment, to participate actively, to collaborate and to motivate others in the lab
- Critical thinking, technical, data collection and interviewing skills
- Statistical and graphical analysis skills
- Ability to maintain quality, safety and / or infection control standards
- Ability to plan and schedule effectively

Skills Preferred

- Ability to handle human specimens with appropriate precautions
- Willingness to adhere to strict PPE requirements and to rigorously follow Standard Operating Procedures
- Exceptional knowledge and skills in molecular biology, particular RT-qPCR and with a preference for experience using isothermal amplification technologies like LAMP
- Highly motivated and energetic with the ability to work effectively in a high test volume setting
- Able to work independently with minimal supervision
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft-based computer programs and some scientific analysis
- Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
- Able to handle sensitive health information with professionalism and confidentiality

Internal / External Contacts

- Extensive daily contact with lab manager, graduate students, and faculty
- Regular contact with Rice staff/administration, collaborators and vendors/delivery services
- Occasional contact with donors and visitors to the COVID-19 LAMP laboratory

Physical Demands

- Requires working at a computer for extended periods of time (up to eight hours per day)
- Ability to perform manual lab tasks including frequent movement between instruments for time periods up to several hours
- Occasional lifting and carrying of materials and equipment weighing up to fifty pounds

Working Conditions

- Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Occasional evening and/or weekend work related to projects as required

Essential Personnel

Position is not considered essential during a campus emergency.

Rice University Standard of Civility

Serves as a representative of the University, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration and discretion in all interactions with other members of the Rice community and with the public.

Security Sensitive

As defined under the Texas Education Code and Rice Policy No. 425, this position is security sensitive and employment in this position is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please attach all required documents in PDF format.

Quick Link for Postinghttp://jobs.rice.edu/postings/24379Essential Functions

- Prepares the materials necessary for LAMP in a high-throughput and semi-automated workflow
- Operates Hamilton series robotics to perform automated sample transfer, heating, and direct amplification of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from patient samples
- Communicates results through verbal presentations, written reports, and written articles submitted for publication in conjunction with PI
- May assist in the administration of research project
- Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions or Information

- Manually transfers samples and setups of RT-qPCR reactions
- Runs plates on the RT-qPCR instrument
- Performs quality control, record, and disseminate the data obtained from LAMP @ Rice study
- Maintains, manages, and directs the repair of scientific equipment
- Maintains sterile molecular biology workspaces

Job Duties

Applicant DocumentsRequired Documents

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume

Optional Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Do you understand this position is term limited and has a one year term?
   • Yes
   • No
2. * Do you have a bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biology, biological sciences or other related field?
   • Yes
   • No
3. * Have you ever worked in a lab? If yes, please describe your experience.

   (Open Ended Question)

4. * Have you ever worked with biological safety cabinets? If yes, please describe your work.

   (Open Ended Question)

5. * Have you ever worked in BSL-2 lab and/ or with laboratory automation? If yes, please describe your work.

   (Open Ended Question)

6. * Please provide the salary or range that you would require or consider for this position.

   (Open Ended Question)