Research Technician

A Research Technician performs technical laboratory duties and/or basic data analysis in support of a research project. The laboratory analyses at this level may involve sophisticated techniques that are generally learned on the job. This position may also analyze data and produce graphs and charts for publication.

Nature of Work: This position works on a grant or research project and performs specific analytical laboratory procedures, usually limited in number and repetitive. The position performs data recording and preliminary analysis and may prepare graphs and charts for publication. Work at this level is non-exempt and represents a basic level of scientific contribution involving some theoretical knowledge. This work is distinguished from Biological Scientist since standardized procedures and protocols are used. Research Technicians perform preliminary analysis of data and may produce graphs and charts for publication, rather than final analysis of data and drafting portions of publications. This position is Time-Limited.

- Perform and maintain cell culture under sterile conditions (primary and immortalized cell lines).
- Conduct cell-based assays, including viability, proliferation, and cytokine measurement assays.
- Process patient blood samples for downstream analysis (e.g., isolation of plasma, PBMCs, and serum).
- Assist with experimental setup, data collection, and basic analysis.
- Prepare reagents, maintain detailed lab records, and ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards.
- Support general laboratory organization, inventory, and equipment maintenance.
- Perform standard laboratory procedures such as radioisotope labeling, slide preparation with staining, and assays for protein, RNA, DNA, or other cellular components.
- Care for laboratory animals, including preparation for surgery and post-operative care.
- Order laboratory equipment, calibrate instruments, and prepare equipment for use.
- Monitor and guide student assistants.
- Prepare graphs, charts, and tables from experimental results for presentations and publications.
- Perform other duties as assigned.

This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent and three years of laboratory or research experience. College coursework in a natural or physical science may be substituted for the required experience on a year for year basis.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

•   Experience with blood or tissue sample processing
•   Experience with cell culture 
•   Familiarity with ELISA, PCR, and/or flow cytometry techniques
•   Prior work in an academic or hospital research setting

Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree.
• Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S.
• SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements
• A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed:
• (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;
• (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree;
• (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree;
• (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or
• (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree
• Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment.
• Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also rank