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Research Technician II

Metabolic Phenotyping Core. Research Technician II
Security: This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information. 
Salary: Negotiable. Based on experience. 
Job Description:   
The Metabolic Core facility provides full spectrum of services for the metabolic phenotyping of preclinical models and assay capabilities for clinical samples. The facility is part of the 
Touchstone Diabetes Center. 

Below are listed the complete panel of services provided by our core main chemistry lab: 
       
  • Chemistry analysis using VITROS MicroSlideTM technology. 
  • ELISA and Magnetic bead Mapping Multiplex Technology. Hormones and cytokines biomarkers.       
  • Determination of total body composition, fat mass, lean tissue mass, free water, and total body water using NMR technology. 
  • Coming Soon.  Preclinical and ex-vivo Micro-CT scanning.  Computed tomography (CT) imaging works through X-rays that are emitted from a focused radiation source that is rotated around the test subject placed in the middle of the CT scanner. The X-ray is attenuated at different rates depending on the density of tissue it is passing through, and is then picked up by sensors on the opposite end of the CT scanner from the emission source. In contrast to traditional 2D X-ray, since the emission source in a CT scanner is rotated around the animal, a series of 2D images can then be combined into 3D structures by the computer.
  • Seahorse XF-24(3). Extracellular Flux Analyzer for cellular metabolism.     
  • Tissue extraction of cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 
  • LC-MS/MS analytical services: Six LC/MS/MS systems are currently housed in UT Southwestern Metabolic Phenotyping Core, Three Nexera X2 UHPLC systems coupled to a LCMS-8050, and two LCMS-8060 ultrafast scanning triple quadrupoles mass spectrometers with Dual (APCI/ESI) ion source. CLAM2030 automated sample preparation module coupled to a Nexera X2 UHPLC and a Nexera UC(SCF) chromatographer both coupled to LCMS-8060 ultrafast scanning triple quadrupoles mass spectrometers with Dual (APCI/ESI) ion source. A Nexera UHPLC (with AI) coupled to a LCMS-9030 Q-TOF. (Shimadzu Scientific Instruments). These systems are the ideal tool for accurate quantitation of low-concentration metabolites and qualitative analysis in biological samples with complex matrix composition.
  • Bomb Calorimetry. Used to measure the heat of combustion of food and rodent feces.
  • Treadmills for mice and rats. Small rodent treadmills are used for forced exercise training and accurate testing of fatigue in mouse and rats.
  • Metabolic urine cages. Used to collect clean urine from mice during a period of time.
  • Rodent metabolic chambers fundamentals. Used to determine energy expenditure, food and water consumption and level of activity in rodents’ metabolic studies.

Characteristic Duties: 
  • Micro-CT scanning services. Operate and assist core users to perform in-vivo and ex-vivo small animals’ studies.
  • Small animals’ anesthesia machine. Clean, maintain and keep inspections up to date.
  • Urine cages. Assist setting up animal studies and cleaning.
  • Assist with ELISA and Magnetic bead Mapping Multiplex Technology. Hormones and cytokines biomarkers assays.
  • Assist with VITROS clinical analyzer operations.
  • Manage service request queue. 
  • Perform routine scientific and medical research work in science area such as biology, chemistry, physics, or other related scientific field. 
  • Assemble, maintain and operate various laboratory equipment and apparatus. 
  • Record research data in accordance with prescribed procedures, discussing results with supervisor.
  • Assist in collection of data for project reports. 
  • Read literature and confer with supervisor concerning implementation of new procedures.
  • May plan for, and provide working supervision to, work of laboratory personnel of lower grade engaged in limited phase of research project. 
  • Laboratory housekeeping, organization and supervision of consumables.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 

Required Skills:  
  • Specific experience is desired but will train the right candidate. 
  • The ideal candidate must be very reliable and have a personable personality. Excellent communication skills and strong work ethic.
  • Excellent attention to detail is an essential skill.
  • Being able to lift 20 lbs.
  • Our facility has equipment distributed in different laboratory locations and two floors. Being able to walk and go up and down stairs is essential.
  • Duties might require standing for certain periods of time.
  • Being able to keep a neat and clean jobsite is essential.
  • Being able to perform repetitive tasks during long hours. 
  • Being able to work independently and with minimal supervision. 

Other Comments:  
  • Only candidates with long term commitment (minimum 3 years) will be considered.  First three months will be a trial period, with long-term candidacy determined by performance.
  • Full time job (40 hours/week)
  • Core official business hours 9:00 am-5:30 pm.
  • Several work shifts might be assigned among the core personnel depending on workflow and demand.
  • Flexible working schedule is required.
  • For details regarding UT Southwestern employee benefits click on the link below.
  • Paid overtime hours.

If interested, please contact us via email attaching your CV and please include a cover letter: ruth.gordillo@utsouthwestern.edu