Laboratory Technician III

Classification Title:

Laboratory Technician III

Job Description:

The Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology is seeking a full time Laboratory Technician III. This position described herein performs research in the University of Florida Pediatric Cancer Immunotherapy Initiative (PCI2), with a focus on work being conducted in the laboratory of Dr. Leighton Elliott, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology. The incumbent will perform laboratory experiments using gene therapy applications and procedures established in this lab. The individual in this position is expected to function under general supervision and troubleshoot simple to moderately complex scientific issues independently (minimally alter or modify procedures if necessary). The position requires work with rodent animal models, histological work, and molecular/cellular work.

Essential Functions;

Animal Studies: Participating in treating animals with pharmacological agents or immunotherapy either through i.p., i.m., i.v., or intracranial injection. Other duties with the mice include assisting with MRI, CT, and MPI imaging techniques. Assist with experimental approaches using magnetic nanoparticles. Plays a key role in regulatory management (IACUCs).

Histological Work/Analysis: Collecting organs and other tissues and preparing for histopathology following the preparation of slides, staining with standard histology stains such as H&E, as well as with immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence will be done. Conduct image capture with fluorescent microscope, confocal microscope, multiphoton confocal microscope and analysis of tissue following intervention studies.

Molecular Techniques and Analysis: Molecular cloning, Plasmid purification, Primer design, RNA and DNA isolation, Isolating RNA and performing real-time PCR, and PCR genotyping of transgenic mouse lines; immunoassays to gene therapy vectors and transgenes, including ELISAs. This may include expansion/maintenance of cell lines and analysis of transfection. Performing protein analysis by isolating protein of interest from cell or tissue lysates and performing/analyzing western blots. Perform multiparameter flow cytometry and develop proficiency setting multicolor flow panels.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensures the laboratory is compliant with governing rules and regulations. Coordinate all IACUC and IRB (exempt) submissions/renewals. Ensure all EH&S standards are met. Train new laboratory members to ensure compliance standards are met.

Training: Train and supervise graduate and undergraduate students performing diagnostic procedures related to immune therapy experiments.

Any other duties, as needed, to fulfill the mission and to abide by the values of the College of Medicine. This will include performing tasks and experiments as directed bMaintaining and updating laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).y the Principal Investigator