Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Copits lab in the Department of Anesthesiology at Washington University School of Medicine is recruiting a highly motivated candidate for a full-time Research Technician I position. We study how different types of somatosensory neurons are assembled into functional circuits and how these processes go awry in chronic pain. Our research bridges work in model organisms with complementary approaches using human nervous system tissue to understand how human pain conditions arise. In the lab we use a variety of techniques including transcriptional profiling with CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, electrophysiology, in vivo imaging, and behavioral phenotyping.

This position is responsible for assisting with laboratory duties in a research setting; performs routine tests with direction from the supervisor, manager or higher-level technician.

Job Description

For more information on the lab, please visit https://copitslab.wustl.edu/.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Assists the investigator or higher-level technician with research studies, experiments and assays, including assisting with the following: tissue procurement, processing and quality control of human nervous system samples, primary cell culture, histology, imaging of mouse nervous system tissue, helping to manage transgenic mouse colony and performing surgeries, assisting with compliance and safety procedures and maintaining required documentation on laboratory and specimen inventory.
• Maintains files on research and assists with data entry.
• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
• Background in neuroscience techniques (histology, imaging, animal surgeries, primary neuron culture).
• Experience with electrophysiology recording techniques.
• Experience with OpenSpecimen lab management software for processing and banking clinical tissue samples.
• Good communication with lab members.
• Hands-on experience working with mice.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent high school certification.

Grade

R04-H

Salary Range

$15.76 - $21.09 / 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.

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.

• Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

• 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/AA 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.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse 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.