Job Description

Life Science Technician

The Program in Epithelial Biology in the Department of Dermatology, seeks a Life Science Technician (LST1) to perform basic functions and activities involved in the execution of molecular biology experiments designed for skin biology, therapeutics related to cancer, as well as genetic diseases. Work in the stimulating and collaborative environment of the Khavari Lab where cutting edge research is being done and breakthrough therapies are being pursued both in the lab itself and within the Epithelial Biology research environment.

Responsibilities include assistance in cell isolation and tissue culture procedures and performance of basic molecular and cell biology techniques. The LST would also be involved in preparation and maintenance of lab stock reagents, solutions and supplies.

Desired Qualifications:

At least one year of research experience in molecular biology and experience working with cell culture including primary cells preferred. Candidate should possess technical skills and problem-solving abilities generally associated with one year of laboratory experience or one year of college coursework in experimental science.

Physical Requirements*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand.
• Ability to stand and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Occasionally lift and handle materials up to 10 pounds
• Rarely carry/pull and/or push up to 20 pounds
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

Working Conditions:

Work occurs in a research laboratory environment. Depending on research, may work in the vicinity of animals, chemicals, gasses, or hazardous materials. Expected to follow all safety requirements and procedures including wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if required.

Work Standards:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, and the appropriate collective bargaining agreement at

Core Duties :

• Very simple animal dissection such as removing a readily accessible organ, preparation before and assistance during surgery, administration of medication and post-surgery care.
• Histological procedures involving fixation of tissue and staining specimens with stains that do not require microscopic control in proceeding from step to step.
• Maintenance and transfer of established cell lines where the culture conditions are well defined.
• Biochemical assays (often colorimetric or spectrophotometric) of compounds or enzymatic activity using well-established procedures where the determination of any settings or adjustments is provided to the technician.
• Molecular biology assays (polymerase chain reaction, sequencing reactions) where the protocol is well established.
• Operation of instruments (e.g., spectrophotometer, fraction collector, scintillation counter, PCR machines, light microscope, cell counter) where the settings are simple or prescribed; techniques such as centrifugation (not involving density gradients) or limited black and white photography.
• Isolation, purification and maintenance of bacteria and basic manipulation of bacterial plasmids using well-established protocols; determination of the concentration of cells.
• Complete and accurate documentation of the work performed.

Minimum Education and Experience:

One year's employment experience in laboratory work or a combination of equivalent education and relevant work experience/training (e.g., one year of college science).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Work requires the ability to follow detailed instructions and keep accurate records.

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