Stanford Flow Cytometry Specialist Job # 80798
Stanford University, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine seeks a Life Science Research Professional II (LSRP II) to perform complex functions supporting the Flow Cytometry Core. The Core provides access to cytometry instrumentation, training, and experimental design assistance to over 500 investigators. The LSRP will use their advanced flow cyotmetry experience to support the core. The selected candidate will be responsible for the maintenance and troubleshooting of a growing fleet of flow cytometers (currently 7 FACSAria II SORP systems, 1 FACSAria SORP Fusion, 1 LSR Fortessa, 1 FACSCanto, and 1 Cytoflex). The LSRP II will train self-operators of the equipment. The successful candidate will also serve as a resource to the researchers in all aspects of flow cytometry and promote the capabilities of the facility. Finally, the successful candidate is expected to stay abreast of current trends in techniques, and will be called upon to develop and implement new technologies. The LSRP II will work under the general guidance of the flow cytometry manager.
The LSRP II will be assigned projects to handle independently and will be expected to make scientific contributions. The LSRP II will be expected to interpret and analyze the results of flow cytometry experiments, cytometer instrument performance reports, and safety studies. The position also entails lab management support such as ordering supplies and equipment, maintaining lab records, and adhering to safety regulations.
Duties include:
- Independently train investigators to operate flow cytometers.
- Independently supervise self-operators in the flow cytometry laboratory.
- Test and troubleshoot flow cytometers and flow cytometry assays.
- Operate flow cytometers.
- Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s). Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to principal investigator.
- Independently conduct complex (lab and/or field) experiments to gather data for a portion of a major research project.
- Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.
- Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required.
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
- Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.
- Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings. Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences.
- Oversee supply and equipment budget under supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
- Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
- Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
- Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.
*- Other duties may also be assigned
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
- Three years of experience working in flow cytometry with experience in preparation of cells for flow cytometry analysis and sorting.
- Thorough knowledge of the operation and troubleshooting of flow cytometers, with knowledge of the BD FACSAriaII, BD Fortessa, BD FACSCanto, and Beckman Coulter Cytoflex being highly desired.
- Experience in teaching/training.
- Experience in working in a BSL-2 (biohazard safety level 2) environment.
- Experience writing protocols.
- Coursework in Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related field
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
WORKING CONDITIONS:
WORK STANDARDS:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
- General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
- Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
- Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
- Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
WORK STANDARDS:
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
- Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
- Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
