Research Technologist I

Formerly Puget Sound Blood Center and Lane Blood Center, Bloodworks is backed by more than 70 years of Northwest history and 250,000 donors. A national leader in transfusion medicine, Bloodworks has been chosen to serve more than 90 hospitals in Washington, Oregon and Alaska – partnering closely with local hospitals to deliver the highest level of patient care. Patients with traumatic injuries, undergoing surgeries or organ transplantation, or receiving treatment for cancer and blood disorders all depend on our services, expertise, laboratories and research. We are local, nonprofit, independent, volunteer-supported and community-based.

We have a wonderful new job opportunity for a Research Technologist I to join our Research Lab. This is a temporary role, estimated to end by no later than March 2027. This lab aims to understand the biology and disease mechanisms of platelets, which play major roles in cardiovascular diseases, infections, cancer metastasis, and more. The candidate is expected to prepare and conduct laboratory research experiments on blood transfusion, immunology, hemostasis, and thrombosis. The candidate will have the opportunity to be trained and to utilize a wide range of techniques under general supervision, including working with human and mouse blood specimens, performing mouse surgery, performing flow cytometry, confocal imaging, and data analysis. The candidate is also expected to provide technical support for flow cytometry.

Principal responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Prepares and conducts laboratory research experiments following written protocols, descriptions in literature, or de novo.
• Design, conduct, analyze, present, and troubleshoot experiments.
• Coordinate activities with the work of other research staff and leadership to ensure the achievement of objectives.
• Contribute to writing protocols, papers, and grants.
• Responsible for the daily operations of the laboratory, including the following: 
• Order and perform quality control of reagents and supplies
• Inventory recording and tracking.
• Basic laboratory maintenance
• Maintain laboratory records
• Perform data entry
• Comply with all applicable policies, procedures, and regulations, including those governing research studies, grants, and laboratory practices.
• Perform other duties as described.

REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or equivalent education and related experience.
• Minimum 1-month previous research laboratory experience.
• Expertise in chemical biology, biochemistry, and animal models is preferred.
• Experience in protein synthesis and purification preferred.
• Experience in mouse handling and surgery is preferred.
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills with attention to detail.
• Basic computer skills, including word processing, database and Excel spreadsheet management, email, and Internet.
• Experience in laboratory mathematics is required.
• Demonstrate effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. 

Specific job skills include, but are not limited to: 

• Required research activities include but are not limited to 1) mouse handling and surgery, 2) protein purification, 3) immunoblotting and electrophoreses, 4) platelet aggregometry, 5) flow cytometry, and 6) microscopy.
• Required mental activities include continuous use of the Ability to read, speak, write, and understand English; Required mental activities used less frequently include decision-making, interpersonal skills, teamwork, creativity, use of discretion, problem analysis, independent judgment, and/or independent action.
• Required physical activities used frequently include standing, hearing, walking, sitting, talking, reaching, feeling, handling, and repetitive motions of hands/wrists (used frequently); stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing, and repetitive motions of feet (used occasionally).
• The Ability to push, pull, and lift an average of 10-20 pounds throughout the day is required, as is the Ability to carry an average of 10-20 pounds.
• Job skills related to specific job functions include frequent use of a handheld pipetter.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• The position is exposed to animal dander and may require the use of breathing support equipment. (VIVARIUM)
• Job conditions to be expected include working a schedule that includes weekends and holidays. This job will require occasional overtime and on-call status. This may include minor travel.
• Requires growing in with a minimum of scrubs, a lab coat, booties, gloves, a bonnet, and a face mask. (VIVARIUM)
• This position will require a flexible schedule, including occasional evening hours.
• Occasional exposure to radioactive materials under carefully controlled conditions
• This position has direct exposure to bloodborne pathogens and requires work with human and animal blood and tissue samples, as well as non-pathogenic viruses.
• Telecommuting is not offered in this role.
• Bloodworks is a community-supported non-profit organization. As such, the incumbent can expect to work with volunteers from time to time.

Benefits and Perks:

Employees regularly scheduled for 24 hours per week are covered by medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, with family coverage also available. Also, able to participate in retirement plans (401a & 401b), consolidated paid leave program (4.8 – 6.8 weeks of time off accrued per year, based on length of service),  subsidized transit program, and educational reimbursement. Candidates hired from outside of our service area may be eligible for a relocation assistance bonus*

*Conditions apply 

Bloodworks Northwest is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Salary : $28 - $41