Lab Specialist

Job Summary
The Johnson Laboratory in the Division of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Utah is seeking a Lab Specialist to study the innate immune response to HIV . We are looking for a highly motivated individual to positively impact our research program and our culture. To defend against infection our immune system needs to sense invading pathogens sound the alarm signals and engage a host response to fight the threat. In the Johnson Laboratory we study how cells detect and respond to viruses. We integrate cell biology virology immunology biochemistry and functional genomics approaches to tackle questions such as: How are viruses recognized during infection What cell factors are required for the innate immune response And how do our cells tune immune responses once they are engaged We hope to learn how viruses like HIV evade detection and uncover new ways to harness our bodys natural defense systems to protect against disease. Individuals hired for this position will be trained in molecular biology virology cell culture protein biochemistry and flow cytometry and will have the opportunity to author peerreviewed publications. They will be expected to work independently or together with other laboratory members as needed. Research experience with molecular biology and tissue culture is preferred. Applicants interested in gaining highlevel research experience before pursuing graduate school or medical school are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants should: 1 be organized 2 be dependable 3 be able to multitask 4 be able to communicate effectively with all levels of staff and 5 demonstrate a genuine interest in science. Increases in compensation are expected and will be based on the applicants performance. The University of Utah provides a generous benefits package that includes retirement contributions a wellness program and a variety of medical and dental plans to choose from. and directs specialized and complex lab tests experiments and surgical procedures for studies. Assists the Principal Investigator in the design implementation and performance of new protocols and procedures as well as the modification of existing techniques. Reviews scientific journals abstracts and other literature for information concerning experimental procedures. Makes advanced statistical calculations analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results. Operates complex and highly specialized laboratory and surgical instruments and equipment. Instructs others in their use. Maintains a log of supplies used in procedures. May supervise train and review the work of laboratory personnel. May prepare equipment and rooms for studies. May assist with preparing budgets. Problem Solving The Lab Specialist assists in the development of research protocols and designs. Modifies and implement procedures. Records and interprets research results. The incumbent works independently under the general supervision of most senior laboratory personnel. Work may include training and supervising other laboratory personnel who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. Problems that cannot be resolved by the incumbent will be referred to the most senior Lab personnel. Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required: Nearly Continuously: Office and laboratory environment. Often: Infectious disease oils there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids hazards includes a variety of physical conditions such as proximity to moving mechanical parts moving vehicles electrical current working on scaffolding and high places or exposure to chemicals . Seldom: Exposure to animals. Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required: Nearly Continuously: Hearing listening talking. Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing) walking standing sitting. Seldom: Bending reaching overhead. Disclaimer This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Biology Chemistry or other scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); two years fulltime laboratory experience; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required. Working knowledge of advanced scientific techniques and procedures as well as the ability to make statistical calculations analyze results prepare reports and perform specialized tests also required. Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.