Laboratory Research Associate

Full time position as Laboratory Associate in the Behavioral Immunology Laboratory. This position will involve assisting on research projects that examine the effects psychological, social, and behavioral factors on the immune system. The group's overall research aim is to explore how these phenomena affect susceptibility to disease in humans. Duties will include processing and analyzing biomarkers from samples of human blood, saliva, urine, and hair. Duties will include preparing samples for storage, setting up experiments/assays, recording results into study databases, and assisting with the maintenance of laboratory inventories and equipment. The person in this position will assist the Laboratory Manager to maintain the organization of the biological sample repository for large externally funded research projects and to process and analyze hair samples to assess cortisol levels. All work will be conducted under the supervision of the laboratory manager. Other key responsibilities will include assisting with sample organization and data entry, running immune assays, working with students and other tasks as assigned by the laboratory manager. The Laboratory Associate position is externally funded. Computer skills are a must, and a working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook and Excel is required. The individual should be independent and responsible and be able to ensure a safe working environment consistent with all internal and external regulations, such as OSHA. In addition, the candidate must have excellent organizational skills, pay special attention to detail, and have the ability to sensitively interact with others. Bachelor's degree and some undergraduate research experience in a biological laboratory are required. Micropipetting experience and experience with ELISA tests are preferred but not required.

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

The position includes laboratory bench work. This work involves precision and requires normal eyesight, good fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination, sustained attention, and the ability to move easily around the laboratory, and to sit for long periods at the lab bench. More general requirements include mental and interrelation activity, ability to use telephone, clear verbal communication and use of computer keyboard. Ability to multitask and to make progress on multiple different projects happening in parallel is essential.

The incumbent must be able to sit for long periods and move easily around the research space. No heavy lifting is required. The incumbent may be asked to walk approximately 0.5 miles to and from a location within Oakland to deliver samples.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.