The Research Technician I will work on department-related grant-funded research projects that will be for a fixed time period. The position works under direct supervision on research projects as assigned and carries out research objectives and tasks as outlined by the Principal Investigator based on grants/contracts. The Research Technician I will be expected to follow guidelines and protocols for lab operations as well as have an understanding of lab manuals and laboratory terminology. A Research Technician I will be required to contribute in experiments, field and laboratory tests by monitoring, recording and summarizing results, which could include preparing tables, charts, graphs and basic statistical data analysis. The Research Technician I will also be required to present at research meetings and contribute to the writing of research findings. In addition this individual, will need to use, clean and maintain equipment, maintain supplies and prepare equipment for testing. Off hours and weekend work may be required.For Natural Science-related positions:
- Perform technical duties involved in conducting physical, chemical or biological tests/experiments
- Preparation, handling and care for lab animals
- Obtain, prepare, mount and stain tissue, blood and other substances for microscopic examinations
- Prepare culture media, chemicals, reagents and solutions
Additional information may be found hereFor Applied Science-related departments:
- Demonstrate a mastery understanding of engineering principles, processes and equipment
- Familiar with computer hardware and software engineering principles
- Performs research directed toward investigation, evaluation, and application of known engineering theories and principles
- Perform engineering analyses/experiments to prove, or modify theoretical propositions
- Will be expected to have experience with equipment operations and maintenance. (i.e. Machining equipment, supercomputer, etc.)
The above statements describe the approximate nature of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive description of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel with this classification. The job description may alter depending on the nature of the grant/contract that is being fulfilled.
- Work effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering LU's mission
- Apply standard scientific practices, techniques, and methods as appropriate for specific situation, correlate data, recognize discrepancies in results, and follow protocols through a series of related detailed steps or processes
- Contribute to experiments/tests in the laboratory/field to test, prove, or modify theoretical propositions on basis of research findings and experiences of others researching in related technical areas; may include measurements and recording of observations, collecting, compiling and processing of data
- Organize data/findings for use in technical reports, documents, or oral/written presentations
- May coordinate operational activities in a research laboratory, providing support services to researchers and technicians
- Assist in the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and standards for lab operations to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the laboratory
- Coordinate ordering, maintaining appropriate inventory, storage, and maintenance of supplies, lab ware, and instruments essential to the operation of the lab
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALSEducation and ExperienceBachelor's Degree and enrolled in graduate programABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOBCommunication and Comprehension
- Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing using MS-Word.
- Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner.
- Communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University to a variety of business and community customers and associates.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Problem Solving- Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.
- Perform scientific reductions and analyses involving routine laboratory procedures.
Physical and Sensory Abilities
- Operate laboratory and experimental testing equipment.
- Assist in surgical procedures on small animals.
- Occasionally required to travel to local and campus locations.
- Frequently required to sit for extended periods to perform deskwork, type on a keyboard, and complete research-related assays.
- Regularly required to hear and speak in order to effectively communicate orally.
- Occasionally required to stand, walk, and climb stairs (3 flights) to move about the building.
- Handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business.
- Regularly lift 20 or fewer pounds.
Summary of Specific Laboratory DutiesThe incumbent in this research technician position will perform routine laboratory maintenance, preparation of laboratory solutions, perform gastrointestinal transits, in vitro muscle bath, tissue isolations, confocal microscopy, immunohistochemistry, qPCR and cell culture techniques. The incumbent will be supervised daily and will be provided with the necessary protocols to perform each of these tasks.WORKING CONDITIONSWork EnvironmentThe working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled laboratory setting. It is well lighted, and the noise level is moderate.Regular (daily) exposure to rodent allergens is and should be expected. Rodent allergic reactions would be prohibitive to this position. Driving RequirementsUse of one's personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position. Proof of a valid Virginia driver's license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.Target Hire Date2024-11-18Time TypePart timeLocationLynchburg - In OfficeThe University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe it is our moral and legal obligation to meet the responsibility of ensuring that all management practices regarding employees are conducted in a nondiscriminatory manner. In compliance with Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and other applicable federal and state statutes, all recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting for all job classifications will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including state of employment protected classes. It is, therefore, our policy and intention to evaluate all employees and prospective employees strictly according to the requirements of the job. All personnel related activities such as compensation, benefits, transfers, job classification, assignments, working conditions, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, and return from layoffs, and all other terms, conditions and privileges of employment will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including all applicable state of employment protected classes. The University is a Christian religious-affiliated organization; and as such, is not subject to religious discrimination requirements. The University's hiring practices and EEO discrimination practices are in full compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the religion component of the employment discrimination laws for religious organizations (including educational institutions), and permits them to give employment practice preference to members of their own religious beliefs.