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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Research Technician

💰 $45,000 - $65,000

ScienceResearchLaboratoryBiotechnologyAcademia

🎯 Role Definition

At the heart of scientific discovery, the Research Technician serves as the hands-on engine of the laboratory. This role is fundamental to the progression of research projects, acting as a crucial link between experimental design and tangible data. A Research Technician is a skilled professional who meticulously executes experiments, manages critical laboratory resources, and maintains the rigorous standards necessary for producing reliable and reproducible scientific results. They work in close collaboration with a team of scientists, post-doctoral fellows, and students, providing the technical support that underpins groundbreaking research in fields ranging from molecular biology to clinical science. More than just a pair of hands, they are active participants in the scientific process, contributing to data analysis, troubleshooting complex procedures, and ensuring the lab operates smoothly and efficiently.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Recent Bachelor's or Master's of Science Graduate
  • Laboratory Assistant or Lab Aide
  • Research Intern or Co-op Student

Advancement To:

  • Senior Research Technician / Research Associate I/II
  • Laboratory Manager
  • Scientist I (often requires further education, e.g., Ph.D.)

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Control (QC) Technician / Analyst
  • Clinical Research Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Execute a diverse range of complex laboratory experiments and research protocols with precision, following guidance from Principal Investigators and senior scientific staff.
  • Master and perform advanced cell culture techniques, including the meticulous maintenance, expansion, transfection, and cryopreservation of primary cells and established cell lines using aseptic methods.
  • Apply a suite of molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid isolation (DNA/RNA), quantification, polymerase chain reaction (PCR/qPCR), and gel electrophoresis to analyze biological samples.
  • Conduct protein analysis assays such as Western blotting, ELISA, and immunoprecipitation to investigate protein expression and interactions.
  • Perform histological procedures, including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning (microtomy/cryosectioning), and executing various staining techniques for microscopic analysis.
  • Diligently collect, organize, and meticulously document experimental data in physical and electronic lab notebooks (ELN), ensuring data integrity, traceability, and reproducibility.
  • Contribute to in-vivo studies by assisting with ethical animal handling, colony management, routine procedures, and post-procedure monitoring in strict accordance with institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) protocols.
  • Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on sophisticated laboratory equipment such as microscopes, flow cytometers, plate readers, and PCR machines to ensure optimal performance.
  • Independently prepare complex chemical solutions, buffers, and specialized media required for various experimental assays, ensuring accuracy and proper sterile technique.
  • Assist in the analysis and interpretation of experimental results, utilizing basic statistical methods and software like GraphPad Prism or Excel to generate figures and summaries.
  • Maintain a detailed and organized inventory of laboratory supplies, reagents, and consumables, initiating purchase orders to prevent workflow disruptions.
  • Uphold and enforce stringent safety standards and protocols within the laboratory, including proper handling of biohazards, chemicals, and waste disposal.
  • Prepare, process, and log biological specimens (e.g., blood, tissue) for analysis and long-term storage, maintaining a highly organized sample management system.
  • Assist senior researchers in the development and optimization of new experimental methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Perform advanced imaging and analysis using various microscopy techniques, including confocal, fluorescence, and brightfield microscopy.

Secondary Functions

  • Support the onboarding and training of new lab members, students, and junior technicians on established protocols and equipment usage.
  • Contribute to laboratory-wide responsibilities, including cleaning, organizing common areas, and managing shared equipment schedules.
  • Compile and present experimental findings during internal lab meetings and journal clubs, contributing to the collaborative scientific environment.
  • Assist in the preparation of materials, data, and figures for grant applications, manuscripts, and scientific presentations.
  • Perform literature searches to gather background information for ongoing projects and to stay current with relevant scientific advancements.
  • Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Mammalian Cell Culture (Aseptic Technique)
  • Molecular Biology Techniques (PCR, qPCR, DNA/RNA extraction)
  • Protein Analysis (Western Blot, ELISA)
  • Microscopy (Confocal, Fluorescence)
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Histology and Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
  • Data Analysis Software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, Excel, ImageJ)
  • Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
  • Animal Handling and Dosing (if applicable)
  • Lab Math and Solution Preparation

Soft Skills

  • Meticulous Attention to Detail
  • Critical Thinking and Scientific Problem-Solving
  • Excellent Time Management and Organizational Skills
  • Teamwork and a Collaborative Spirit
  • Clear Written and Verbal Communication
  • Adaptability and a Strong Willingness to Learn
  • Resilience and Perseverance in the face of experimental setbacks
  • Proactive and Self-Motivated Work Ethic

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor's of Science (B.S.) degree in a relevant scientific discipline.

Preferred Education:

  • Master's of Science (M.S.) degree in a relevant scientific discipline.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Neuroscience
  • Chemistry
  • Biomedical Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1-3 years of hands-on, post-baccalaureate experience in a research laboratory setting (academic or industry).

Preferred:

  • Direct experience in the specific research area of the lab (e.g., immunology, oncology, neurodegeneration). Experience with advanced techniques like single-cell sequencing, CRISPR, or complex in-vivo models is highly valued.
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