The University of Arizona invites highly motivated, science-minded individuals to apply for the position of Research Technician in the Churko Lab in Sarver Heart Center. The incumbent will be trained in and perform a techniques associated with human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) research, CRISPR gene editing, and a variety of other research activities. Prior experience in cell culture and stem cell research is a plus, but not required.

This is an Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position. For further details on this type of position at the University of Arizona, please .

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; state retirement plan; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please .

The University of Arizona is in the process of creating a new classification and compensation architecture. This University Career Architecture Project (UCAP) will revolutionize the way we think about professions and manage compensation at the UA. It is a two year initiative that will replace the current classified staff and appointed professional categories of employment with market-based job functions and families. As an applicant, UCAP will create clearer career paths and opportunities and will help you make more informed pay decisions. To learn more about this project, please visit ucap.arizona.edu.

• Perform scientific data collections and analyses involving routine procedures characterized by moderate use of independent judgement.

• Ensure shared consumables and reagents are stocked. Compare products from different vendors, coordinate equipment demos, negotiate pricing, place orders, and coordinate with accounting as needed including the tracking of spending against budget.

• Write up summaries of work, documenting location, findings and procedures used and assists in writing reports by conducting literature searches and background research; prepare bibliographies as required.

• Operate laboratory and experimental equipment such as microtomes, microscopes, spectrophotometers, centrifuges, analytical balances, photometers and spectrometers.

• Maintain sterile cell culture practices, change media on cells (could occur on weekends and after hours), make media at accurate component concentrations, aliquots reagents.

• Support other students, research staff, and lab members in their research projects.

• Receive training in handling BSL2+ reagents, recombinant DNA, Sendai virus and Lentivirus, as well as potentially toxic laboratory reagents.

• Train students and staff in the operation of equipment and/or in the performance of technical procedures.

• Generate next generation sequencing libraries (single cell RNA-seq, ChIP-seq) and perform gene expression analysis (real time PCR).

• Perform CRISPR gene editing on hiPSCs to generated isogenic hiPSC lines as well as reporter lines.

• Handle human and animal tissue and fluids such as blood, heart tissue, blood vessels, and biopsies. Communicate and co-ordinate with medical personnel to obtain patient samples.

• Maintain accurate records, de-identify patient information, keep PHI secure.

• Maintain proper training and certification to handle sensitive materials.

• Differentiate hiPSC into cell type specific derivatives (endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, myoblasts, fibroblasts).

• Additional duties as assigned.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills. Ability to multitask.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and work well with others.

• Ability to acquire new skills and work independently.

• Excellent analytical and problem solving skills.

• Knowledge of principles and techniques of molecular and cell biology.

• Prior molecular biology, animal handling, stem cell research or cell culture experience.

• Please also see Arizona Board of Regents Minimum Qualifications below.

Bachelor’s degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment; OR, Four years research experience appropriate to the area of assignment; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.

• Prior molecular biology, animal handling, stem cell, and/or cell culture experience.

Dr. Jared Churko
jchurko@email.arizona.edu

At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. As an Hispanic-serving institution, we translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues, and constituencies. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs and others who will help us advance our Inclusive Excellence initiative aimed at creating a university that values student, staff and faculty engagement in addressing issues of diversity and inclusiveness.