Research Assistant II - Hematology/Oncology (Croessmann Lab)

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Organization:

Hematology/Oncology Research

Job Summary:

Looking for an individual for a mid level position as a research assistant in a genetics and molecular biology breast cancer lab at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Previous experience in a molecular biology or genetics lab as a research assistant/technician/staff member is required. Individual hired for this job will be responsible for processing and banking plasma samples for current breast cancer repository and ongoing clinical studies. In addition to this role, the individual will set up, conduct experiments, and continue research projects following protocols independently in the lab. The individual will also assist in other laboratory and research functions, general laboratory operations, inventory and ordering supplies and other lab manager tasks.

Department Summary:

The Division of Hematology and Oncology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center conducts research and treats all types of adult cancers including solid tumor cancers and hematological (blood) disorders, as benign hematologic disorders such as coagulation disorders and non-cancerous blood diseases.
With over 80 faculty members representing a broad range of professional expertise, our dedicated team of professionals is committed to hematologic and oncologic care through:

• Research to better understand and treat cancers and benign hematologic
diseases
• Translating VICC laboratory research into therapies to help people with
cancer
• State-of-the-art patient care and personalized cancer therapy
• Clinical trials, including Phase I drug development with subsequent Phase II
and Phase III testing
• Training future hematology and oncology doctors and researchers
• Cancer chemotherapy, pharmacology, and biological therapy with an
emphasis on solid tumors
• Treating bleeding and coagulation disorders, anemia and other disorders of
blood

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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Individually conduct experiments and assays

• Understand and follow experimental protocols (may include animal handling, tissue culture, etc.)

• Record, compile, interpret, and communicate data/results

• Follow University safety protocols (may include use of combustibles, radioactivity, toxic material, and/or carcinogens)

• Perform calculations involving molarity, % solutions, and serial dilutions

• Prepare, operate and troubleshoot equipment in experimental procedures

• Read and follow all equipment manuals

• Maintain and repair equipment according to manufacturer and University guidelines

• Ensure Laboratory is prepared for experiments

• Maintain inventories

• Maintain sterile conditions as required

• Prepare reagents

• Demonstrate an understanding of acceptable procedures and techniques

• Recognize problems and suggest solutions

• Assist in modifications as directed

• Provide appropriate written documentation of experiments

• Prepare preliminary research progress reports

• Summarize test results appropriately

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/STRENGTHS NEEDED & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Environmental Conditions

• Occasional: Sitting: Remaining in seated position

• Occasional: Standing: Remaining on one's feet without moving.

• Occasional: Walking: Moving about on foot.

• Occasional: Lifting under 35 lbs: Raising and lowering objects under 35 lbs from one level to another

• Occasional: Push/Pull: Exerting force to move objects away from or toward.

• Occasional: Bending/Stooping: Trunk bending downward and forward by bendi