R&D Technician II

Position Title: R&D Technician II

Position Summary: The position will support the sample management team by maintaining the integrity, organization, traceability, and proper handling of biological research samples, particularly proteins and cell lines. Responsibilities include receiving incoming shipments, checking in samples, fulfilling requests, maintaining onsite inventory, and ensuring biological materials are stored and handled appropriately.

Background & Context: The individual will work closely with the supervisor and other team members in a research-focused environment within our organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Receive and check in incoming biological sample shipments.

• Handle and manage biologics research samples, including proteins and cell lines.

• Distribute samples to requesters or store them in onsite inventory as appropriate.

• Fulfill sample dispersal requests accurately and within required timelines.

• Maintain sample integrity through appropriate handling, storage, labeling, and transfer procedures.

• Maintain traceability of biological materials and associated datasets.

• Use sterile techniques when handling samples.

• Perform sample re-aliquoting, vial labeling, and sample transfers.

• Thaw, expand, and bank cell lines under BSL-1 and BSL-2 laboratory conditions.

• Perform quality control activities for cell line banks.

• Submit and send cell line samples for testing on behalf of Discovery departments.

• Support routine research laboratory workflows involving biological materials.

• Maintain biological sample inventory using LIMS and/or spreadsheets.

• Keep sample information, locations, and associated records accurate and up to date.

• Track samples and manage requests to maintain appropriate traceability.

• Use Excel and Microsoft Office applications for documentation and record keeping.

• Report discrepancies, inventory concerns, and other sample management issues to the supervisor or appropriate team member.

• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment.

• Monitor and replenish laboratory consumables.

• Support incoming shipments and the distribution of laboratory materials.

• Assist with day-to-day laboratory operations and adapt to changing priorities.

• Work collaboratively with the supervisor and staff to maintain an organized and efficient sample management process.

Qualification & Experience:

• At least 3 years of laboratory experience in an academic or industry setting.

• BS/MS in Biological Sciences or an equivalent degree; candidates with equivalent laboratory experience and qualifications may also be considered.

• Experience handling biological samples or working in a laboratory environment.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

• Ability to maintain accurate sample records and follow sample-handling procedures.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Self-motivated, deadline-conscious, and adaptable when priorities change.

• Biobanking, sample management, and laboratory operations: These are particularly relevant backgrounds for this role and have been associated with successful candidates.

• Cell culture and pipetting: Hands-on experience with cell culture, pipetting, and sterile or aseptic techniques is preferred.

• LIMS and sample tracking: General LIMS experience is highly desirable. Experience with a particular platform is not required.

• Liquid-handling equipment: Experience operating or programming liquid handlers is preferred, but training can be provided.

• Automated storage systems: Experience with automated systems used to organize and retrieve biological samples is an advantage.

• Excel and Microsoft Office: Candidates should be comfortable maintaining inventory records, tracking samples, and completing routine documentation.

• Blood sample management: Candidates with blood sample management experience may also be considered, particularly when they have transferable experience in biological sample handling, tracking, and documentation.

• Candidate Profile: The ideal candidate will have a strong laboratory foundation and be comfortable balancing hands-on sample handling with inventory management and record keeping. Candidates from academic research laboratories are acceptable, as are those from pharmaceutical or biotechnology environments. Relevant experience in biobanking, sample management, and laboratory operations is especially valuable. The candidate should be organized, detail-oriented, responsive to sample requests, and comfortable working with multiple stakeholders in a dynamic research environment.