Research Technician II

This Research Technician II position is with University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ. Conduct assigned in vitro, ex vivo, and large-animal cardiovascular research procedures independently with general direction and in collaboration with the principal investigator, research staff, and students. Support scheduled porcine Impella studies, including CP and 5.5 device testing on and off ice; perform blood draws and other specimen collections as authorized; prepare reagents and daily dilutions; and complete study setup, execution, cleanup, and disinfection in accordance with approved protocols and laboratory procedures. Process blood and other biological specimens for proteomics and lipidomics workflows and perform routine and specialized assays, including flow cytometry, ELISA, Western blotting, BSA protein quantification, hematology testing using Hemochron and HemoCue, cell counting, microscopy, cell culture, and related biochemical or cellular methods. Maintain sample identification, handling, storage, and transfer records to protect specimen integrity and data quality. Assist with experimental design and research method development; draft, update, validate, and follow protocols and standard operating procedures. Maintain accurate experimental records; enter, organize, and perform routine analysis of study data using Excel, GraphPad Prism, MATLAB, ImageJ, or comparable tools; and contribute figures, summaries, presentations, reports, and manuscripts. Operate, clean, monitor, and maintain laboratory and research equipment, including the HSD 2 "Stobie" system, Coulter cell counter, centrifuges, microscopes, microplate readers, and specialized hematology and cardiovascular research equipment. Perform routine maintenance and cleaning, including Coulter bleach purges and UHMWPE component cleaning; coordinate repairs, electrical or facilities issues, and surplus requests with the building manager; schedule vendor maintenance; maintain inventories; and order materials through BuyWays or P-card procedures. Serve as the laboratory safety coordinator and support compliance with institutional animal care, biosafety, human specimen, chemical safety, and research training requirements. Maintain laboratory-specific safety procedures and training materials; add or remove personnel from RLSS approvals; track required training and protocol affirmations; train new staff, students, and visitors on approved laboratory procedures; manage chemical waste; monitor hazardous and peroxide-forming chemicals; and maintain spill kits, first-aid supplies, and personal protective equipment. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of biomedical laboratory practices, specimen handling, BSL-2 procedures, chemical safety, and research documentation standards. Skilled in performing wet-laboratory assays and operating, cleaning, troubleshooting, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Ability to follow approved human and animal research protocols and maintain accurate, traceable records. Ability to organize competing study activities, inventory, equipment maintenance, and time-sensitive experimental work with general direction. Ability to analyze routine research data and prepare clear figures, summaries, reports, and presentations. Ability to train laboratory personnel and communicate effectively with investigators, staff, students, facilities personnel, and external partners. Ability to complete and maintain all required institutional training and approvals for work involving animals, human specimens, biosafety level 2 practices, bloodborne pathogens, chemical safety, and hazardous waste before performing regulated duties. Ability to work on site and adjust work hours when scheduled studies or time-sensitive specimen processing require it.