Research Tech III
Children's National Hospital
Summary
The Research Technician III conducts research under the direction of a principal investigator. The RT-III works on independent projects, collects and analyzes data and reports results. This position is responsible for coordinating multiple research studies as well as the analytical, administrative and supervisory functions necessary to manage the department's research programs. The RT-III directs research assistants and medical students.
Job description
Functional Accountabilities
Responsible Conduct of Research
- Consistently demonstrates adherence to the standards for the responsible conduct of research.
- Plans, conducts and manages research projects within federal and institutional regulations and policies under the direction of the principal investigator.
- Uses research funds and resources appropriately.
- Maintains confidentiality of data as required.
- Meets all annual job-related training and compliance requirements.
Laboratory Work
- Performs routine and non-routine tests, such as western blots, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence as directed.
- Records and checks results for completeness and accuracy.
- Performs tasks that require familiarity with techniques and equipment.
Project Planning
- Independently develops experimental methods and performs data analysis.
- Assists with planning specific research protocols and procedures.
- Coordinates schedules of tests and procedures.
- Assists staff in developing and troubleshooting new techniques and ideas.
- Modifies methods and protocols in conjunction with the principal investigator.
Data Collection and Analysis
- Formulates and defends hypotheses; elaborates on design and execution of experiments that could test these hypotheses.
- Develops methods and protocols to implement experiments, including gel electrophoresis, PCR analysis, protein purifications and DNA purifications.
- Makes detailed observations and keeps an accurate laboratory notebook.
- Presents and discusses work at weekly laboratory meetings and national symposia.
Project Management
- Oversees the management of lab-related materials and monitors cost effectiveness.
- Coordinates multiple research studies.
- Maintains awareness of deadlines and plans appropriately for upcoming staffing and project needs.
- Demonstrates strong time management skills and plans for the completion of projects on time.
- Trains and mentors new staff as needed.
- Assists with determining work assignments, schedules and priorities.
Data Maintenance
- Develops and modifies databases as needed.
- Collects, codes, and compiles statistics (coding of data requires interpretation of data from a broad range of alternatives).
Internal and External Customer Relations
- Responds to both internal and external requests in an effective and friendly customer service manner.
Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree in basic science or related field (Required)
- Master's Degree (Preferred)
- At least 3-7 years of progressive experience (Required)
- Knowledge of statistics and advanced mathematics
- Proficiency in the use of a wide variety of lab techniques, research equipment and research-related software
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Proven ability to communicate effectively with a multi-disciplinary research team
- Demonstrated experience in laboratory methods, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR analysis, protein purification and DNA purification
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, such as MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Experience handling laboratory animals
Benefits
- Comprehensive health coverage
- Medical services
- Prescription services
- Infertility services
- Transgender health services
- Paid time off
- Vacation accrual
- Sick leave
- Holidays
- Personal day
- 401(k) plan
- Healthcare spending accounts
- Dependent care spending accounts
- Employer-paid life insurance
- AD&D coverage
- Long-term disability coverage
- Tuition assistance
- Fitness resources
- Employee assistance
- Commuter benefits
Company overview
Children's National Hospital is a premier pediatric healthcare institution located in Washington, D.C., recognized as one of the top children's hospitals in the United States. Founded in 1870, it serves as the region's primary pediatric academic medical center, providing comprehensive care across all pediatric specialties. The hospital operates a 323-bed facility and offers advanced medical services including neonatal intensive care, pediatric surgery, oncology, cardiology, and neurology. As an academic medical center affiliated with the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Children's National is deeply involved in pediatric research, medical education, and clinical innovation. The institution is particularly renowned for its Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation and its leadership in pediatric genomics and precision medicine. Children's National consistently ranks among the top pediatric hospitals nationally, with specialties in cancer, cardiology, neurology, and neonatology receiving particular recognition for excellence in patient care and outcomes.