Flow Cytometry Specialist

Overview

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) is the largest blood-focused research institute in the United States. With over 30 basic, translational, and clinical investigators, the institute is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative therapies related to blood and blood disorders. The institute's research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including transfusion medicine, cellular therapy, thrombosis/hemostasis, immunology, and hematologic malignancies. As a vital part of Versiti, a non-profit organization with a blood bank at its core, the VBRI strives to improve lives through innovative research and the development of novel diagnostics and treatments.

VBRI is part of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Campus, a rapidly growing clinical-translational research hub. VBRI’s proximity to the Medical College of Wisconsin, Childrens’ Hospital of Wisconsin, and Froedtert Hospital facilitates seamless interdisciplinary collaborations. A range of exemplary core facilities support highly competitive research. In the summer of 2024, construction of a new research building began, doubling existing VBRI research space to enable the recruitment of 10-15 new faculty. With its renowned researchers, strategic expansion plans and location in a highly collaborative environment, the VBRI is poised to maintain and expand its position as one of the leading hematology institutes in the world.

Position Summary

The Flow Cytometry technologist/specialist works under the direction of the Flow Cytometry Core leader and the Director of Shared Resources to (1) help maintain cytometry and similar instrumentation (cell analyzers and sorters); (2) develop/improve/implement lab techniques and perform complex experiments (cytometry panel design, sample processing, data acquisition, cell sorting, data analysis); and (3) interface with the broad userbase to provide scientific expertise, cytometry-focused training/education, experimental and instrument troubleshooting, and interpret experimental outcomes to contribute to the timely and accurate completion of research projects. This individual will work as part of the Flow Cytometry Core team to facilitate completion of lab operations and provide services for campus.

Total Rewards Package

BenefitsVersiti provides a comprehensive benefits package based on your job classification. Full-time regular employes are eligible for Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans, Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays, Short- and Long-term disability, life insurance, 7% match dollar for dollar 401(k), voluntary programs, discount programs, others.

Responsibilities

• Works with Director, Core Laboratories to provide the expertise and resources needed to contribute significantly to research projects that require fluorescence activated cell sorting and/or analysis.
• Provides guidance/education/training for the userbase and other technical staff in the operation of cytometry instrumentation and experimental procedures
• Assists in operating, calibrating, and performing routine maintenance on instrumentation in the Flow Cytometry Core. (Celesta, Symphony, Accuri, Aria, Discover, ImageStream, Aurora, CytoFLEX)
• Troubleshoots assays, develops new experimental tools, and performs technical analyses to progress research projects involving flow cytometry.
• Participates in hands-on research projects that may involve sample procurement and processing through data analysis and delivery
• Attends required laboratory and research meetings. Communicate with team members, research partners, and the userbase about research activities and data interpretation
• Stays current with information related to the field of flow cytometry and the research being performed. Routinely participates in continuing education activities
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this classification. Willingness and agility to adapt and grow within the ever-evolving research environment.
• Adheres to BCW, Biosafety, NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) procedures and regulations.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification
• Understands and performs in accordance with all applicable regulatory and compliance requirements
• Complies with all standard operating policies and procedures

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in biology, chemistry or equivalent scientific discipline required

Experience

• 1-3 years of flow cytometry experience required
• 1-3 years Extensive experience in fluorescence-activated cell sorting and analysis desired

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to understand the work performed using flow cytometry instrumentation required
• Ability to perform flow cytometry research procedures independently required
• Demonstrated ability in flow cytometry techniques required
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills required
• Strong detail orientation and analytical ability required
• Excellent problem solving skills required
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks and meet deadlines effectively required
• Computer literate with an emphasis on analysis of data generated using flow cytometry required

Tools and Technology

• High-speed, fluorescence-activated cell sorter and analyzer required

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