Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal)

This position is located in the Office of Research and Development Service at VA Tennessee Valley Health Care System - Nashville VA Medical Center in Nashville, TN. The Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal) works in a research program within a laboratory environment, requiring a practical knowledge of the methods and techniques of one or more of the biological sciences to provide practical technical support in a laboratory.

***THIS IS NOT A VIRTUAL POSITION, YOU MUST LIVE WITHIN OR BE WILLING TO RELOCATE WITHIN A COMMUTABLE DISTANCE OF THE DUTY LOCATION*** Major duties and responsibilities include but not limited to: Prepares samples of blood, tissue, urine, or other organic substance from animal test subjects to provide specimens that effectively support laboratory test, examination, or research procedures Prepares samples, slides, smears, and diagnostic reagents common to the laboratory Prepares primary cultures for relatively pure populations of specific cell types to evaluate regulation of cell behavior independent of the animal Observes physiological or behavioral effects of various conditions, agents, and stimuli on laboratory animals Performs tests and examination procedures for diagnostic, surveillance, experimental, and reference samples that involved delicate and exacting steps using elaborate and complex instrumentation Demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of the reaction of biological systems to chemical or other organic interactions Interprets recorded or collected data that may involve very fine distinctions to identify trends in results Accurately assesses the validity of an experimental process, recognizing common environmental or other considerations that could affect the results Performs common laboratory assays including preparation of solutions and calculations of dilutions and concentrations, pH determination, BCA protein determination, gradient and high-speed centrifugation, and microscopy Performs advanced laboratory assays such as Western blot, fluorescent imaging, immunochemistry, tissue and cell cultures, ELISA techniques, DNA isolation and purification, preparation and analysis of RNA, Southern blots, kinase and signal transduction assays Develops and maintains detailed records of all experimental or other protocols Presents data in a logical and systematic fashion Performs data analysis, including arithmetic calculations, algebra, graphing of data using interactive computer programs, and preliminary statistical evaluations Calibrates and maintains laboratory equipment Performs other duties as assigned Work Schedule: Monday to Friday; 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Recruitment & Relocation Incentives: Not authorized