Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working with a high degree of independence and under general direction, coordinate major activities in medical and related technical areas. The Research Assistant 4/Histotechnologist will coordinate major activities in research and diagnostic related technical areas at the National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center (NPDPSC). Major activities include tasks supporting the Histology lab operations, monitoring of technical and quality assurance activities and adherence to all applicable regulatory standards. In addition, the research assistant 4 will cross train and acquire proficiency in other NPDPSC departments, including molecular testing for research and diagnostics and other areas as assigned.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Provide input and recommendation to principal investigator regarding significant developments in research projects. Process research requests from internal and external clients. Consult with NPDPSC management and directors of the division on projects as assigned. (20%)
Coordinate major activities of laboratory/ research. Perform quality control on finished slide preparations and maintain required quality control documentation for samples and instrument operations. Maintain and troubleshoot equipment operation failures. (10%)
Perform the most complex quantitative analytical procedures. Perform high complexity analytical procedures. Utilize new and innovative research techniques involving a high degree of skill and training. Prepare and process histology slides for all autopsy surveillance and clinical biopsy brain specimens, this includes processing, embedding and cutting prepared tissue blocks followed by immunohistochemical staining. (50%)
Assist in developing procedures, coordinate information with others as needed: Assist in developing new histology lab procedures and policies as part of process improvements and updated procedures as required by regulatory standards. Track orders and inventory, maintain stock and solutions, monitor instrument performance, and maintain cleanliness and order of the lab. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Co-author research projects, co-author diagnostic, surveillance, and research projects. May participate in manuscript and grant writing, co-author test validation or research projects and independently write progress reports, manuscripts and tasks related to clinical trials. (5%)
Teach or instruct others in research techniques: May assist research assistants, technicians, and part-time students. Support clinical and research staff, including research associates or testing personnel, students, fellows and residents and lower-level research staff, assure, all guidelines are followed by the project staff for each study. (5%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with NPDPSC leadership, technical staff, and administrative staff to discuss diagnostic testing and research and maintain workflow in the laboratory.
University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.
External: Some contact with vendors to exchange information.
Students: Limited or no contact with student employees to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
May supervise research assistants and technicians. Train new laboratory technicians and student employees and occasionally direct the work of student employees when necessary.
REQUIREMENTS
Experience: 5 to 8 years of related experience required.
Education: Bachelor's degree in science. ASCP certification or other clinical specialty like chemistry C(ASCP) or medical technologists (MLS or MLT) is preferred.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of prion diseases.
Ability to rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
Ability to demonstrate successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, technical and educational backgrounds within the department, School and University, and with individuals outside the university.
Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate sound judgment and good decision-making.
Must be able to manage specimen storage.
Must be extremely well organized and capable of setting priorities while maintaining consistent attention to accuracy and quality.
Must show great transparency in work and be able to create standard operating procedures as necessary for work functions and protocols. Must keep exceptionally accurate and easily retrievable records.
Must be motivated to explore and learn new laboratory techniques and must be able to teach laboratory techniques to other technicians.
Ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and be a team player.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Standard laboratory conditions with some hazardous chemicals. Special hazards include biohazardous (potentially infectious) human brain and cerebrospinal fluid and other bloodborne pathogens and chemicals. The following personal protective equipment required: appropriate gloves, protective eyewear, laboratory coat, and safety shoes. General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards.
