Research Technician I – Radiation Oncology Full-time

Research Technician I

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Technician I to join our team. This role will focus on the production and purification of novel protein-based immunotherapies. The successful candidate will support the lab's mission to develop next-generation treatments by executing protein expression protocols in both mammalian and bacterial systems and performing essential quality control assays. Assists with laboratory duties in a research setting; performs routine tests with direction from the supervisor, manager or higher-level technician. Why Join This Project? This position offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of immunotherapy research. You will gain hands-on experience with the entire pipeline of drug development- from molecular cloning to producing the actual proteins that will be tested in vivo for therapeutic efficacy.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assists the investigator or higher-level technician with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
• Maintains and propagates cell lines using rigorous aseptic techniques to ensure contamination-free cultures.
• Performs large-scale transient transfections in mammalian cells and IPTG-induced protein expression in E. coli.
• Executes protein purification workflows using column purification.
• Collaborates with senior scientists to troubleshoot expression yields and optimize purification protocols.
• Maintains detailed and accurate electronic laboratory notebooks, documenting all experimental parameters and results.
• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.

Working Conditions:

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent high school certification or combination of education and/or experience.

Certifications/Professional Licenses: No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience: No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills: Not Applicable

Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Foundational knowledge of cell biology and molecular biology.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture or bacterial work.
• Familiarity with protein analysis (SDS-PAGE or Western Blot) is a plus.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills and a desire to work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
• High level of integrity and attention to detail in data collection and reporting.

Grade:

R04-H

Salary Range:

$16.54 – $22.35 / Hourly. The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Accommodation:

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request. All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening:

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement:

Personal:

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness:

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family:

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We've got you covered.
• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO Statement:

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.