Shared Resources Specialist I

About the Role

The Shared Resources Specialist I is an entry-level position supporting the scientific needs of researchers at Fred Hutch using the Biospecimen Processing and Biorepository (BPB) shared resource. This role assists scientific researchers with bench-level experiments, biospecimen processing, operating analytical instruments, compiling research data, performing calculations, preparing charts, graphs, and summaries, and entering laboratory data into a database.

Key Responsibilities

Research Support

• Supports research primarily through SOP-directed tasks to develop a strong understanding of fundamental science in BPB.
• Performs bench work including:
• Processing biospecimens for isolation and preservation of PBMC, plasma, and others.
• DNA and RNA extraction from samples like whole blood, FFPE, and cell or tissue samples.
• Cell culturing including B cell transformation.
• Mycoplasma testing and sample quantification.
• Prepares and maintains laboratory reagents and stocks.
• Learns and performs new technical skills, including processing protocol development and coordinating study projects.

Research Development

• Establishes and maintains positive, collaborative working relationships with faculty and external users to identify scientific needs.

Equipment Oversight

• Performs basic equipment operation and maintenance.
• Learns to coordinate and complete maintenance on some equipment and uses relevant software.
• Potentially reviews and identifies new equipment needs.
• Assists in supply management.

Training and Education

• Assists in developing and modifying lab protocols, training materials, and specimen handling guidelines for investigators.
• Learns to train users in sample preparation and submission and assists with experimental setup.
• May supervise work-study students, interns, and lab aids.

Administrative Tasks

• Reports or delivers results to users.
• Accurately documents laboratory activities.
• Performs basic billing requirements.
• Provides regulatory and compliance support for the shared resource.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bench-level experiments
• Biospecimen processing
• Analytical instruments
• Data compilation, calculations, charts, graphs, summaries
• Database entry
• Laboratory reagents and stocks preparation/maintenance
• Protocol development
• Equipment operation and maintenance
• Supply management
• MS Office suite of applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, Teams, One Drive)
• Record keeping
• Database management
• Understanding of biosafety requirements

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related fields; OR
• Associate degree and 1+ years of experience; OR
• GED/High School Diploma and 3+ years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to learn and adapt to new protocols and techniques.
• Ability to learn and operate all specimen processing and repository equipment.
• Previous experience in operation and maintenance of relevant equipment.
• Understanding of the biosafety requirements related to biospecimens and lab environment.
• Excellent communication skills and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative, team-oriented, shared resources lab environment.
• Experience with MS Office suite of applications.
• Experience with record keeping and database management.