The University of Washington (UW) is proud to be one of the nation’s premier educational and research institutions. Our people are the most important asset in our pursuit of achieving excellence in education, research, and community service. Our staff not only enjoys outstanding benefits and professional growth opportunities, but also an environment noted for diversity, community involvement, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.
At the University of Washington, diversity is integral to excellence. We value and honor diverse experiences and perspectives, strive to create welcoming and respectful learning environments, and promote access, opportunity and justice for all.
Department of Medicine's Division of Allergy & Infectious Diseases has an outstanding opportunity open for a Temporary Laboratory Technician 2 in the Olusegun Lab.
Under direct supervision, Laboratory Technician 2 will perform laboratory research responsibilities in support of studies on novel molecular assays for detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in STIs. The overall goal of the research is to improve diagnostics for STIs and develop molecular assays for detection of AMR in STI pathogens. Our research is conducted in collaboration with the Public Health — Seattle & King County (PHSKC) Sexual Health Clinic, PHSKC Lab and the Washington State Public Health Laboratory.
Additional Background:
There are several ongoing studies at the UW Soge laboratory located at the Harborview Medical Center Ninth and Jefferson campus including surveillance of AMR in STIs, development and implementation of novel STI diagnostics and novel assays for detection of AMR in STIs. Funding is provided by NIH and CDC grants, and contracts from pharmaceutical and diagnostics companies.
Duties & Responsibilities:
· Perform molecular assays for detection of STI pathogens including Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, and Treponema pallidum · Perform bacterial culture and species confirmatory tests · Perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing · Perform DNA extraction · Perform PCR and sequencing of PCR products for strain subtyping and characterization of antibiotic resistance determinants · Participate in and support quality assessment and continuous laboratory improvement activities · Data analysis and preparation of reports (detailed notebook) · General laboratory maintenance including cleaning of glassware, temperature logs/charts of laboratory equipment, preparing reagents and chemical solutions, freezer organization and inventory of isolates, shipment of specimens · Perform related duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
· One year of college with course work emphasizing laboratory science; OR one year's experience as Laboratory Technician I, or equivalent. · Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
Desired Qualifications:
· Molecular biology techniques such as DNA purification/manipulation, PCR, sequencing, electrophoresis · Good sterile techniques and the ability to perform bacterial culture and species confirmatory tests · Working knowledge of general lab procedures and protocols · Excellent microbiology laboratory skills · Ability to work well with other laboratory staff · A high level of motivation, good organizational skills, ability to work as a member of a team and take on responsibility.
Working Conditions:
· This position will have critical/essential staff designation and as such will be required to report to work when scheduled despite inclement weather. · This position requires flexibility in the work hours, including extension into the evening when processing of specimens and research deadlines mandate, and on occasion requires working outside of the standard work week.
Application Process:
The application process for UW positions may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter, and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select “Apply to this position”. Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your “My Jobs” page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.
Founded in 1861, the University of Washington is one of the oldest public institutions in the west coast and one of the preeminent research universities in the world. The University of Washington is a multi-campus university comprised of three different campuses: Seattle, Tacoma, and Bothell. The Seattle campus is made up of sixteen schools and colleges that serve students ranging from an undergraduate level to a doctoral level. The university is home to world-class libraries, arts, music, drama, and sports, as well as the highest quality medical care in Washington State and a world-class academic medical center. The teaching and research of the University’s many professional schools provide undergraduate and graduate students the education necessary toward achieving an excellence that will serve the state, the region, and the nation. As part of a large and diverse community, the University of Washington serves more students than any other institution in the Northwest.
