Research Specialist I/II (Cytometry Specialist I/II)

A full-time Cytometry Specialist I/II position is available in the Flow Cytometry Resource Facility (FCRF) laboratory in the Department of Molecular Biology at Princeton University. The FCRF provides support for Princeton University faculty and student research utilizing state-of-the-art flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) techniques and instrumentation. We currently support over 35 Principal Investigator labs on campus working with a wide variety of model systems and assays. This is an excellent opportunity to join our shared resource lab and to develop/expand career skills in a growing field. Position level and salary commensurate with experience.

This position reports directly to the Flow Cytometry Resource Facility Director. Cytometry Specialist I specific duties include:

·       Assist with and carry out routine single color and advanced multi-color flow cytometry experiments with users (students, research staff, post-docs and faculty) on analytical flow cytometry instruments.

·       Orient new users to the lab and directly contribute to the successful daily operation of the facility with minimal direction.

·       Upon demonstration of appropriate knowledge base, training to operate several cell sorters will be provided with the goal of independent execution of a wide variety of FACS sorting experiments in a BSL2+ level facility.

·       Provide instrument and software training to new and established clients with minimal supervision. The lab is equipped with Cell Sorters: BD FACSAria Fusion, Sony Biotechnology MA900, BioRad S3e, UnionBiometrica BioSort; Flow Cytometers: BD FACSymphony A3, BD LSRII; Others: Z2 Particle Counter, CytoSpin Centrifuge and FACSDiVa, FlowJo, & FCS Express software platforms.

·       Provide technical assistance and consultation to clients on experimental design, including appropriate sample preparation techniques and necessary control samples.

·       Perform daily quality control checks on the benchtop flow cytometers and cell sorters. Keep accurate, legible records to monitor instrument performance. In concert with Facility Director, complete scheduled and unscheduled system maintenance as needed.

·       Assist in maintaining instrument/experiment calendars and become expert in the use of iLab scheduling and usage reporting software.

·       Have the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced multi-user research environment while maintaining excellent attention to detail.

·       Troubleshoot instrument and assay performance, assisting researchers with optimizing their experiments and data analysis.

·       Archive all facility data and maintain workstation computers monthly.

·       Organize and maintain a resource reference library for users.

·       Perform routine laboratory duties including ordering of lab supplies with comparison cost sourcing, general lab upkeep, preparation of reagents, disposal of laboratory waste, and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, including weekly sterilization and monthly cleaning protocols. Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

·       Other duties as assigned by the FCRF Director.

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Cytometry Specialist II duties include all items outlined above plus: Independent operation of several cell sorters to successfully execute a wide variety of FACS sorting experiments in a BSL2+ level setting; knowledge of and adherence to standard cell sorting biosafety practices; interfacing with vendor service engineers; assisting in creating and editing facility standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials.