Research Technologist II

CommonSpirit Health; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Saint Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ is seeking a Research Tech II to execute complex experimental workflows in translational neuro-oncology research. The role focuses on liquid biopsy platforms to study pharmacogenomics, tumor evolution and disease progression, working under supervision of senior staff.

Candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and have 2+ years of lab experience with cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and sequencing library

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related field.
• 2+ years of research experience in a laboratory setting.
• Proficiency in cell culture, molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR/qPCR) and/or sequencing library prep.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to learn new techniques independently.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization and time management.

Responsibilities

• Receive, process, and manage biospecimens per CLIA-compliant protocols.
• Isolate DNA/RNA from CSF and tumor tissue; process blood samples.
• Prepare single-cell RNA sequencing libraries using the 10x Genomics platform.
• Generate DNA sequencing libraries from tissue and blood samples.
• Maintain thorough documentation of experimental workflows and results.
• Contribute to lab meetings, seminars, and journal clubs.
• Keep accurate records of studies with minimal supervision.
• Perform basic data analysis as required by senior staff.
• Create and update internal lab procedure manuals.

Skills

Lab techniques

Cell culture

Molecular biology

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences

Tools

10x Genomics platform

Sequencing platforms

Job description

Job Summary and Responsibilities

As a Research Tech, you will perform standard laboratory procedures with some independence, under the general supervision of a PI or Research Technician. Your contributions are vital for efficient lab operations. Every day you will execute experimental protocols, collect/record data, and maintain lab equipment. You may also perform complex procedures and provide guidance to students.

Responsibilities

To be successful in this role, you will possess a strong foundation in lab techniques, meticulous attention to detail, and work effectively independently and collaboratively. Reliability, safety adherence, and a willingness to learn are key. Other primary responsibilities include:

• Receive process and manage biospecimens—including tumor tissue cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood—in compliance with CLIA-regulated protocols
• Isolate cell-free DNA from CSF and extract genomic DNA from tumor tissue and peripheral blood
• Isolate circulating cells from CSF and perform tissue dissociation for downstream applications
• Prepare single-cell RNA sequencing libraries using the 10x Genomics platform from tumor and CSF-derived cells
• Generate DNA sequencing libraries from tumor tissue blood and cell-free DNA
• Maintain rigorous accurate documentation of experimental workflows in accordance with established protocols and regulatory standards
• Contribute to a collaborative research environment through participation in lab meetings seminars and journal clubs
• Keeps accurate records of studies conducted with minimal supervision.
• Performs basic data analysis and processing as required by senior laboratory personnel.
• Creates, maintains, and updates lab's internal procedure manuals.

The Ivy Brain Tumor Center is a pioneering non-profit clinical research program dedicated to developing transformative therapies for patients with aggressive brain tumors. As a global leader in early-phase neuro-oncology trials the Center hosts the largest portfolio of Phase 0 studies for brain tumors worldwide. Our multidisciplinary team integrates clinical care translational science and precision medicine to accelerate the identification and development of first-in-class therapies.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Tech II to join our translational neuro-oncology research team. This role is ideal for an individual with strong laboratory experience who is capable of independently executing complex experimental workflows. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing innovative liquid biopsy platforms to study pharmacogenomic response tumor evolution and disease progression.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or a related field
• Two (2) years prior experience in ar research, clinical, or other scientific environment
• Prior laboratory research experience with demonstrated proficiency in cell culture molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR qPCR) and/or sequencing library preparation
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to learn and execute new techniques independently
• Excellent attention to detail organization and time management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred

• Four (4) years of prior experience in a research, clinical, or other scientific environment
• Background in cell biology neuroscience or oncology
• Familiarity with CLIA-regulated workflows and liquid biopsy methodologies
• Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing and next-generation sequencing platforms
• Additional Information: Two to three letters of recommendation may be requested

Where You’ll Work

Hello Humankindness: Join a Legacy of Healing at Saint Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center (SJHMC) Ready to make a real difference? Join SJHMC in Phoenix AZ., a 571-bed nonprofit founded by the Sisters of Mercy over 125 years ago. We're more than a hospital; we're a global destination for life-changing care, embracing patients with humankindness. Here, your calling will flourish. We're not just a workplace; we're a community dedicated to a mission of service.

Leaders In Specialized Care

• Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI): A world-renowned center for groundbreaking neurological research and innovative treatments.
• Norton Thoracic Institute (NTI): A national leader in advanced thoracic care with pioneering surgical techniques.
• Level I Trauma Center: One of Arizona's busiest ERs, providing immediate, comprehensive care for critically injured patients 24/7.

Why SJHMC?

• Culture of Excellence & Well-being: We care for our people, fostering professional and personal growth.
• Community & Collaboration: Be part of a network committed to global health and well-being.
• Join a Legacy, Shape a Future: Over 20% of our patients travel internationally for our specialized care.

This is an invitation to join a family of dedicated professionals at the forefront of medical innovation, united by the power of humankindness.

Pay Range

$20.91 - $29.54 /hour