Research Technician, CGR, NCI Connect Study (Tues-Sat)

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The BioProcessing and Trial Logistics (BPTL) functional team within the Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory (CGR) plays a critical role in supporting the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG) through expert oversight of biospecimen operations for a variety of research aims. By integrating laboratory operations, biospecimen processing, inventory management, and site coordination, BPTL helps ensure that specimens are collected, processed, stored, tracked, and documented with the highest standards of quality and integrity. We are seeking a Research Technician (Tuesday – Saturday) to provide biospecimen processing support for the DCEG Connect for Cancer Prevention study. KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES The BPTL team supports the DCEG Connect study by translating study and research goals into practical, reliable biospecimen collection, processing, storage, shipment, and tracking workflows. These efforts ensure the availability of high-quality, well-annotated specimens to support current research objectives and creation of a biospecimen resource for long-term scientific discovery. As a Research Technician, the incumbent will be responsible for the execution of laboratory activities under existing SOPs related to biospecimen processing, aliquoting, and specimen inventory. Connect laboratory operations occur across extended hours Monday through Saturday to support study requirements, as such, this Research Technician position core hours will be Tuesday – Saturday from 9AM to 5:30PM. This role requires consistent communication, attention to detail and data recording skills. Core responsibilities include: Execute biospecimen processing workflows under established SOPs, including receipt, processing, aliquoting, and appropriate storage of created aliquots Work effectively in a BSL-2 environment to process and create biospecimen resources for current and future research aims, including blood fractionation, isolation of buccal cells from mouthwash and urine processing Process additional specimen types as CONNECT study aims and workflows evolve in accordance with established SOPs (e.g. home fecal collections for microbiome research) Record accurate and timely biospecimen details within laboratory databases or other documentation systems, including specimen receipt information and processing documentation Purposeful and consistent adherence to existing SOPs to ensure that time-sensitive specimens are handled according to established protocols Support continuous improvement of laboratory workflows using CGR’s established quality management systems and operational infrastructure including documentation of deviations Adhere to existing laboratory quality assurance guidelines, equipment and supply management protocols, and general laboratory organization activities Use of Excel, Word, Outlook and other laboratory information systems daily for tracking, reporting and communication BASIC QUALIFICATIONS To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below: Possession of Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency No work experience required with a Bachelors degree Understanding of biospecimen handling and documentation requirements Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal leadership Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Teams, and Outlook Ability to maintain focus for extended periods of time and manage detailed data entry accurately Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration: Experience in biospecimen processing and specimen inventory Experience working with human biological specimens in research, clinical, or biorepository setting including blood fractionation Knowledge of aseptic techniques in human biospecimen processing Experience with biospecimen inventory management databases, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), or electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) Familiarity with quality management systems in a regulated or high-throughput laboratory environment JOB HAZARDS This position is subject to working with or has the potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations