Laboratory Technician, Marine Microbiology - Duhamel Lab, Molecular and Cellular Biology (Part-Time)

This Laboratory Technician, Marine Microbiology - Duhamel Lab, Molecular and Cellular Biology (Part-Time) position is with University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ. Maintain cultures of marine prasinophyte algae and bacterial prey, including media preparation and sterile technique. Set up, optimize, and monitor exponentially fed batch (EFB) continuous culture experiments, including characterizing growth phases of the study species. Coordinate experiment timing with visiting collaborators and help maintain backup cultures to ensure successful sampling campaigns. Conduct routine sampling of experiments and assist with sample analyses (e.g., flow cytometry, cell counts and biovolume, chlorophyll, nutrient, and radioisotope uptake measurements). Assist the postdoctoral researcher with processing and analyzing samples generated by the project. Assist the PI and postdoc with data management, record keeping, and general laboratory organization. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Knowledge of basic microbiology and cell biology laboratory practices, including sterile/aseptic technique. Knowledge of laboratory safety practices, including the safe handling of chemicals and, with training, radioisotopes. Skill in preparing culture media, reagents, and solutions accurately and reproducibly. Skill in operating laboratory instrumentation (e.g., flow cytometer, fluorometer, particle counter) following established protocols. Skill in maintaining detailed, well-organized records of experiments and samples in lab notebooks and shared digital files. Ability to follow detailed written protocols precisely and carry out repetitive procedures with a high level of attention to detail. Ability to organize and prioritize tasks across concurrently running cultures and experiments, and to adapt work schedules to experiment timelines. Ability to troubleshoot routine problems with cultures or instruments and communicate issues to the team promptly. Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with team members and collaborators at partner institutions, as well as independently after training. Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands: Work is performed primarily in a research laboratory environment. Requires the ability to access and work throughout laboratory areas, which may include extended periods of standing and walking, and to perform repetitive laboratory procedures. Requires handling laboratory equipment, chemicals, biological materials, and, following required training, radioisotopes. Must adhere to established laboratory safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).