RESEARCH TECHNICIAN II

School of Medicine

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

Research Technician II- Dr. DiNome

Occupational Summary

The BRITE Lab (Breast Cancer Research in Transcriptomics and Epigenomics) at the Duke University Surgical Oncology Division seeks a Research Assistant II. This role supports various aspects of laboratory research, contributing to studies on breast cancer biology, and emphasizing transcriptomic, epigenomic, and functional analyses. The position includes experimental execution, data collection, and lab management tasks, integral to advancing the lab’s goals of understanding breast cancer progression and therapeutic resistance.

Work Performed

• Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry.
• Conduct cell culture experiments, including the maintenance and manipulation of cell lines.
• Support experiments involving CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, RNA-seq, and epigenetic assays.
• Assist in functional assays, such as cell viability, migration, and immune cell co-culture studies.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data; prepare summaries and preliminary reports for review by senior staff.
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and culture media as needed for experiments.
• Assist in monitoring and managing laboratory inventory, including ordering supplies and maintaining records.
• Collaborate with team members to optimize protocols and troubleshoot experimental challenges.
• Participate in training and guiding graduate as well as undergraduate students or new lab members in routine techniques and safety practices.
• Contribute to lab meetings and discussions, presenting experimental progress and results.

Required Qualifications at This Level

Education/Training:

Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field is required.

Experience:

• At least one year of relevant laboratory experience is preferred.
• Experience with molecular or cell biology techniques in a research setting is preferred.
• A Master’s degree in a relevant field may substitute for the required experience.

Skills:

• Proficiency with basic laboratory techniques and an understanding of experimental design.
• Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad, Excel, or R).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field.

Experience

None required above education/training requirement. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

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