Location

SAINT LOUIS, MO 63110

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Santi lab is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Technician to join a laboratory investigating sperm physiology, biomarkers of male infertility, and the development of novel contraceptive approaches.

Our research focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate sperm function and fertility. The successful candidate will participate in studies examining sperm membrane physiology, intracellular calcium signaling, membrane potential, sperm motility, infertility-associated biomarkers, and the effects of candidate compounds on sperm function.

The technician will be trained in fluorescence-based assays using voltage- and calcium-sensitive fluorescent indicators, plate-reader measurements, quantitative sperm motility assays, and data-analysis approaches. The position will also involve evaluating candidate molecules and pharmacological interventions for their potential effects on sperm function and their potential utility in the development of novel contraceptive strategies.

This position is particularly suited to an individual who enjoys hands-on laboratory research, is highly attentive to experimental detail, has strong quantitative skills, and is interested in translating basic discoveries in reproductive physiology into approaches relevant to infertility diagnosis and contraceptive development.

Performs independently complex research studies, experiments and assays.

Job Description

Additional information about the lab can be found at https://reproductivesciences.wustl.edu/laboratories/santi-lab/.

• Performs complex analysis/projects according to research protocols, explaining methods and procedures to other technicians.
• Enters data and maintains current data files on research projects. Monitors data to ensure consistent quality.
• May perform preliminary statistical analysis of data.
• Prepares figures, tables, and summaries for laboratory meetings, presentations, manuscripts, and grant-related activities.
• Reads and discusses relevant scientific literature.
• Troubleshoots experimental procedures and contributes to improving assay reproducibility.
• Assures compliance with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
• Assists in the training and development of technicians, acting as a group leader.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Master’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience:

Laboratory Setting (1 Year)

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience involving sperm biology, reproductive physiology, male infertility, cellular physiology, pharmacology, or fluorescence-based assays.

• Experience with GraphPad Prism, R, Python, MATLAB, or comparable data-analysis software.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Communication, Laboratory Instrumentation, Recordkeeping, Software Program, Working Independently

Grade

R08-H

Salary Range

$18.77 - $31.94 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected] or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity or shared ancestry, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. As a federal contractor, the university maintains affirmative action programs to implement its equal employment opportunity policy for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, in accordance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VEVRAA), as amended.