Research Technician - Wander/Zraika

Title: Research Technician
Job Class: Full-time; Hourly/Non-Exempt, $20-28/hour DOE
PIs/Reports To: Drs. Luke Wander and Sakeneh Zraika

At the Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research (SIBCR), scientists seek new ways to improve the health and well-being of Veterans through research and education conducted at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System and Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center.

As an SIBCR employee, you have a unique opportunity to help improve the lives of Veterans through supporting our scientists whose research spans a broad range of areas such as mental health; neuroscience; diabetes, endocrinology and nutrition; prosthetics; oncology; and pulmonary diseases. You will also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to be a part of an important mission.

Summary:

The Research Technician will work in a large, successful group focused on diabetes research. Responsibilities will include working both independently and as a member of a team with multiple technicians, post-doctoral fellows and principal investigators, and providing technical assistance with ongoing research projects. Duties will include in vivo animal studies as well as cell-based bench work. This position requires the ability to handle laboratory mice. Additional responsibilities include providing technical assistance with ongoing research projects, keeping detailed records, and presenting scientific reports to the group. Extensive training will provide an opportunity to gain proficiency in physiological studies.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor and record animal weights, as well as food and water consumption
• Administer injections and perform blood draws on conscious and anesthetized animals
• Be responsible for collecting samples from live animals for genetic analysis
• Perform and assist with survival and non-survival surgical procedures, including catheterization of veins, arteries and pancreatic bile duct in mice
• Perform culls and tissue collection, and prepare tissue for subsequent analysis (e.g. histology, biochemical assay)
• Perform cell culture experiments utilizing immortalized and primary cells, observing sterile technique as required
• Perform assays to determine glucose and insulin levels in blood, plasma and cell culture samples
• Maintain detailed records, schedule cell/animal studies and analyze data
• Perform regular presentations of data to the research group
• Practice humane use, care and treatment of animals in accordance with federal regulations and as approved by the facility's animal care committee
• Maintain cell culture labs, including preparation of reagents, initiating orders for supplies and upkeep of lab equipment

Position Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in physiology or related field. This job requires the individual to be motivated, well organized and have excellent attention to detail. Experience in cell culture and histology would be beneficial. Proficiency in using Microsoft Office, particularly design and use of Excel spreadsheets is required.

Knowledge and Experience:

One to three years of relevant experience is desired, but not required.

No relocation expenses offered.

Conditions of Employment:

Currently, only US Citizens, Permanent Residents, Green Card holders with proper work documents, and F1-type Visa holders are eligible to apply. All applicants must meet certain VA hiring requirements to be eligible for SIBCR positions including, but not limited to, the following:

• Subject to a background/security investigation

• Selected applicants will be required to complete a VA online onboarding process

• Must be proficient in written and spoken English

• Must pass pre-employment physical examination

• Designated and/or random drug testing may be required

• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959

• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).

• Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP). If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

SIBCR Benefits:

Offered to all employees working 20+ hours per week on a regular basis:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

• Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability

• Employee Assistance Program

• 403(b) Retirement Plan with pre-tax and Roth options with Matching Contribution (up to 2.5%) plus Non-Match Contribution of 5%

• Sick Leave - accrues at 1 hour for 20 paid hours

• Vacation Leave - accrues at 1 hour for 20 paid hours (accrual rates increase based on years of service and are enhanced after completing three years of employment with SIBCR).

• 11 Paid Holidays + one Personal Holiday

• ORCA transportation pass at a nominal monthly fee

• Other mandated leave such as FMLA and WA PFML

• Voluntary Benefits include Flexible Spending Account, AFLAC, Voluntary Term Life

No other types of compensation offered at this time.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:
The Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity or status as transgender, national origin, caste, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor protected by federal, state or local law.