Staff Research Associate I

JOB OVERVIEW 

One of the main goals of the Edward and Pearl Fein Memory and Aging Center is to make biospecimens banked at the Sample Processing Laboratory available to researchers conducting studies related to dementia, aging, and other neurological disorders. To support this goal, the Center banks samples from a wide range of studies. These specimens are collected both to support the objectives of the study under which they are obtained and to facilitate future research by other investigators.

The Sample Processing Laboratory is responsible for both the initial processing of these specimens and their long-term biobanking. The incumbent performs standard technical laboratory procedures and receives training in more specialized techniques as needed to support the requirements of ongoing research projects.

The new team member will play a key role in these activities. They will work closely with clinical research coordinators to coordinate participant visits within the operational workflow of the Sample Processing Laboratory, process biospecimens received on a daily basis, and ensure accurate tracking of specimens using the appropriate laboratory information management system (LIMS). In addition, they will collaborate with their supervisor to fulfill biospecimen requests from internal and external investigators, which involves locating specimens in the biorepository and preparing them for shipment.

Overall, the position involves performing a wide range of routine laboratory procedures as well as non-standard tasks that require problem-solving, adaptability, and attention to detail to meet the evolving needs of biospecimen processing in a specialized research environment. 

DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Identify the functions or tasks that employees in the job perform. The essential functions should state the purpose of the work and the results to be accomplished, rather than how the function is performed. Of the tasks listed, what percentage of time is devoted to each? The more time employees spend on a function, the more likely it is that the function is essential. Generally, include those functions that account for 10% or more of the work, i.e., key items that contribute significantly to the achievement of the job. The functions should add up to 100%.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• BA/BS degree in a related science and knowledge of, or experience with, laboratory techniques relevant to the position; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Basic knowledge of common laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuges, pipettes, ultra-low freezers, biosafety cabinets).
• Proficient knowledge of FreezerWorks. 
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to follow instructions and manage multiple routine tasks.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate and organized records.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and follow direction and feedback.
• Basic familiarity with the FreezerWorks system or similar laboratory information management systems.
• Basic familiarity with common laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuges, low-temperature freezers, refrigerators, label makers).
• Basic computer and database literacy.
• Familiarity with standard office equipment (e.g., fax machines, copiers).
 

LIVING PRIDE STANDARDS

Service Excellence

• Demonstrates service excellence by following the Everyday PRIDE Guide with the UCSF Medical Center standards and expectations for communication and behavior. These standards and expectations convey specific behavior associated with the Medical Center’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence, and provide guidance on how we communicate with patients, visitors, faculty, staff, and students, virtually everyone, every day and with every encounter. These standards include, but are not limited to: personal appearance, acknowledging and greeting all patients and families, introductions using AIDET, managing up, service recovery, managing delays and expectations, phone standards, electronic communication, team work, cultural sensitivity and competency.

• Uses effective communication skills with patients and staff; demonstrates proper telephone techniques and etiquette; acts as an escort to any patient or family member needing directions; shows sensitivity to differences of culture; demonstrates a positive and supportive manner in which patients / families/ colleagues perceive interactions as positive and supportive. Exhibits team work skills to positively acknowledge and recognize other colleagues, and uses personal experiences to model and teach Living PRIDE standards. 

• Exhibits tact and professionalism in difficult situations according to PRIDE Values and Practices

• Demonstrates an understanding of and adheres to privacy, confidentiality, and security policies and procedures related to Protected Health Information (PHI) or other sensitive and personal information.

• Demonstrates an understanding of and adheres to safety and infection control policies and procedures.

• Assumes accountability for improving quality metrics associated with department/unit and meeting organizational/departmental targets. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Keeps working areas neat, orderly and clutter-free, including the hallways. Adheres to cleaning processes and puts things back where they belong. Removes and reports broken equipment and furniture.

• Picks up and disposes of any litter found throughout entire facility. 

• Posts flyers and posters in designated areas only; does not post on walls, doors or windows.

• Knows where the Environment of Care Manual is kept in department; corrects or reports unsafe conditions to the appropriate departments. 

• Protects the physical environment and equipment from damage and theft.