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Occupational Summary 

The Asokan lab (www.asokanlab.org) is affiliated with the Duke Department of Surgery, Molecular Genetics & Microbiology & Biomedical Engineering and is focused on the development and evaluation of novel gene therapy vectors. We are currently seeking to hire a motivated candidate for a Research Technician II position to assist with molecular biology techniques in the lab. A competitive salary and benefits package will be provided according to the Duke University School of Medicine guidelines.

Work Performed

The candidate will work closely with lab members including postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, research technicians, and is expected to independently perform daily activities which include, but may not be limited to:

• Prepare culture media, chemicals, reagents and solutions
• Carry out routine cell culture and perform mammalian cell transfections
• Recombinant viral vector production
• DNA/RNA extraction and cloning DNA constructs in bacterial systems.
• Perform analytical techniques on vector preparations (qPCR, ELISA, protein gels etc).
• Obtain, prepare, mount and stain tissue, blood and other substances for microscopic examination.
• Perform recombinant protein expression from bacteria.
• Ensure validity and reliability of data and maintain accurate records.
• From time-to-time support additional high-priority projects to meet deadlines.
• Attend and participate in relevant meetings, training, and development sessions.
• Determine and setup instruments and operate laboratory equipment required for specific tests.
• Use and maintain lab equipment in accordance with university’s health & safety guidelines.
• Review laboratory methods manual, scientific journals, abstracts and other literature for information applicable to research experiments.
• Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new personnel.

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, genetics, zoology, microbiology or other related scientific field.
• Work requires two years of research experience.
• Research experience involving mouse work is a plus.
• Must be detail-oriented, very well organized, and approach laboratory procedures with critical thinking.
• Strong initiative and eagerness to learn.
• Outstanding problem-solving skills.
• Must adhere to strict safety requirements.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively in a dynamic group environment. 

Minimum Qualifications

Education

Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field.

Experience

None required above education/training requirement. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Job Code: 00000951 RESEARCH TECHNICIAN II
Job Level: 08

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