Job Description

Laboratory Research Technician I

Med-Surgery - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (25006446)

The Department of Surgery is seeking a motivated and dependable Laboratory Technician I to support a highly active research program with a strong focus on animal studies. This entry-level role is ideal for candidates interested in gaining hands-on experience in preclinical research, including animal procedures, tissue collection, and foundational molecular biology techniques. The selected candidate will receive comprehensive training from senior staff and will progressively assume routine responsibilities as proficiency is demonstrated.


The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and eager to learn a wide variety of research skills. Strong communication, reliability, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment are essential. This position is supported by departmental discretionary funds, which have more than sufficient resources to sustain the role for the foreseeable future.

Key Responsibilities Include:

- Assisting with animal procedures under supervision, including preparation of surgical instruments, materials, and supplies

- Supporting tissue and blood collection, processing, labeling, and documentation for downstream analyses

- Helping with animal handling, restraint, observation, and accurate completion of required procedure documentation

- Preparing reagents, buffers, media, and other materials needed for animal and bench research

- Conducting basic molecular and cellular biology experiments (PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, gel electrophoresis, sample preparation)

- Maintaining detailed laboratory records in compliance with institutional and federal guidelines

- Participating in a structured training plan to learn existing protocols currently performed by senior staff, with the goal of assuming those responsibilities over time

- Assisting with general laboratory maintenance, including inventory, equipment upkeep, and workspace organization

- Collaborating with the research team and animal care personnel to support smooth daily operations across the laboratory

Job Summary

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

Essential Functions

Assist in performing standard laboratory procedures under supervision, including preparation of reagents, buffers, media, and general lab materials. Conduct basic molecular and cellular biology experiments, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, ELISA, and tissue or sample processing. Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records in compliance with institutional, regulatory, and quality standards. Participate in hands-on training to learn established protocols and techniques currently performed by senior staff members, with the goal of gradually assuming their routine responsibilities. Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, equipment upkeep, and inventory of supplies and reagents. Collaborate with team members to support smooth daily laboratory operations. Assist with routine animal procedures under supervision, in accordance with IACUC and DLAR guidelines. Support animal studies, including tissue collection, processing, labeling, and documentation. Help prepare materials and supplies needed for animal procedures or surgeries. Maintain accurate records of animal-related activities, sample tracking, and required documentation.

Physical Effort

Approximately 40-50%

of the time performing hands-on laboratory work (pipetting, benchwork, loading instruments, handling samples).

30-40%

of the time spent at a computer (data entry, documentation, analysis, instrument monitoring).

10-20%

of the time standing, walking between work areas, or handling light materials (e.g., reagent bottles, lab supplies under 25 lbs). Must be able to stand or sit for extended periods and perform repetitive fine-motor tasks such as pipetting. The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.

Assignment Category

Full-time regular

Job Classification

Staff.Laboratory Research Technician I

Job Family

Research

Job Sub-Family

Laboratory

Campus

Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required

No experience required

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience?

Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Additional details about Required Licensure/Certification

NA

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

Work Arrangement

On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.

Hiring Range

TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation Offered

No

Visa Sponsorship Provided

No

Background Check

For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances

Not Applicable

Required Documents

Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents

Not Applicable