Laboratory Assistant / Research Technician

Job Description

This detailed job description outlines the key responsibilities and qualifications for a dedicated individual to support critical laboratory operations, with a strong focus on histology and immunohistochemistry.

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Laboratory Assistant / Research Technician (Histology & IHC)

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our dynamic laboratory team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in maintaining laboratory efficiency, supporting experimental workflows, and contributing to valuable research outcomes in the fields of histology and immunology.

Key Responsibilities:

• Laboratory Record Management: Meticulously maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory records, including experimental data, sample logs, and equipment maintenance logs, ensuring data integrity and timely input into relevant systems for traceability and compliance.
• Tissue Processing Support: Provide essential support in the preparation of tissue samples for microscopic analysis, which may involve assisting with tissue embedding, precise sectioning (using microtomes or cryostats), and careful mounting of tissues onto slides.
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Assistance: Actively assist with various routine tasks associated with Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays, including accurate reagent preparation, standardized slide staining procedures, thorough washing steps, and the precise setup of experimental runs, always ensuring strict adherence to established protocols.
• Image Preparation: Take responsibility for preparing, editing, and polishing microscopic images obtained from IHC experiments. This includes ensuring high quality, proper resolution, and appropriate formatting for publication and display on the GBI/IHC website.
• Laboratory Organization & Maintenance: Uphold a consistently high standard of laboratory organization and cleanliness. This involves regular sterilization and maintenance of equipment, efficient management of laboratory supplies (including restocking and tracking inventory), and ensuring the proper handling and disposal of hazardous waste in strict accordance with safety regulations.
• Experimental Participation: Actively participate in the execution of diverse laboratory experiments under direct supervision, meticulously collecting data, and providing clear, concise summaries of experimental results to the assigned supervisor.
• Reporting & Communication: Maintain open and proactive communication with the assigned supervisor, providing timely reports on the progress of duties, tasks, any encountered issues, or concerns in a professional and clear manner.

Requirements:

• Experience: While prior hands-on laboratory work experience is preferred, this role is also highly suitable for motivated entry-level candidates eager to launch their career in a laboratory setting. Training will be provided.
• Scientific Foundation: Possess a foundational understanding of key scientific principles in histology (the study of tissue structures), immunology (the study of the immune system), and cell biology (the study of cellular processes and components).
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: Demonstrated aptitude for learning new techniques and procedures quickly, coupled with an ability to actively assist in troubleshooting and identifying the root causes of experimental or procedural issues.
• Procedural Adherence: Strong capability to meticulously follow established laboratory procedures, detailed protocols, and specific instructions, operating effectively and precisely under direct supervision.
• Effective Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential, enabling clear, concise, and effective interaction with team members, supervisors, and collaborators on all work-related matters.
• Conflict Resolution: Demonstrates a professional and composed demeanor when addressing conflicts, actively listening to understand diverse perspectives, and constructively seeking amicable resolutions.
• Accountability & Integrity: Possesses a high degree of personal integrity, including the courage to acknowledge errors, learn from them, and take full responsibility for one’s actions and contributions.
• Professionalism Under Stress: Maintains a consistently positive attitude, demonstrating resilience and the ability to manage workload and stress effectively and professionally in a fast-paced environment.
• Learning & Collaboration: Highly motivated and eager to acquire new skills and knowledge, exhibiting exceptional attention to detail in all tasks, and a genuine enthusiasm for contributing to a collaborative, team-oriented laboratory environment.