Research Technician I

The Research Technician I conducts research under the direction of a principal investigator. The RT-I performs a variety of routine and specialized laboratory tests, specimen preparations and experimental procedures for the purpose of research as directed.

Dr. Posnack's cardiac research laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician with a background in biomedical engineering, data science, computer science, physiology, or a related field to support "dry lab" projects related to machine learning for cardiac arrhythmia risk prediction and other translational cardiac research projects. The candidate will work on collecting, organizing, and analyzing electrophysiology data or imaging datasets from patient cohorts or animal models, with a focus on pediatric subjects.

Note: Minimum education and experience requirement listed below. Tasks and responsibilities can be adjusted for more experienced applicants.

Minimum Education
Bachelor's Degree with a major in basic science or related field desired. (Preferred)

Minimum Work Experience
At least 1-2 years of related experience desired. No supervisory experience required. (Preferred)

Required Skills/Knowledge
Strong mathematical skills and an inquisitive attitude.
Basic knowledge of lab safety and use of basic lab equipment desired.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience with 12-lead ECG or other Cardiac Electrophysiological signals

* Experience with Microsoft Excel, including macros or VBA

* Prior exposure to research environments or clinical data handling

* Interest in pursuing graduate studies or a career in biomedical research

Key Responsibilities:

* Extract and manage ECG data from MUSE, other hospital systems, and laboratory systems

* Perform echocardiography and optical signal analysis using custom tools

* Preprocess, align, and filter ECG signals using custom tools and established algorithms

* Perform signal analysis using custom tools and established algorithms

* Analyze patient-specific data and prepare summary tables

* Develop and document code/scripts in MATLAB and/or Python for repeatable analysis

* Create figures, plots, and visualizations for presentations, papers, and reports

* Collaborate with clinicians, graduate students, and research scientists in a team-based environment

* Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to data privacy protocols (HIPAA compliance)

* Contribute to manuscript preparation, abstract submissions, and scientific presentations when applicable

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 tests under the direction of principal investigator or supervisor.

• Records and checks results for completeness and accuracy.

• Conducts literature search as requested.

• Performs tasks that may require familiarity with fundamental techniques and equipment.

• Compiles information from lab notebooks and journals.

• Attends courses, seminars and lab meetings to expand knowledge of research and laboratory technique.

Project Planning

• Assists with planning specific research protocols and procedures.

• Coordinates schedules of tests and procedures.

• Assists staff in developing and troubleshooting new techniques and ideas.

Recordkeeping

• Maintains a log of work performed.

• Prepares charts, graphs and results of studies; compiles and helps analyze data.

• Maintains all required records, reports, statistics, etc.; prepares summary reports as requested.
• Maintains and updates department policies regarding procedures, objectives, safety, etc.
• Anticipate and responds to customer needs; follows up until needs are met

Teamwork/Communication

• Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior

• Partner with all team members to achieve goals

• Receptive to others' ideas and opinions

Performance Improvement/Problem-solving

• Contribute to a positive work environment

• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to change

• Identify opportunities to improve clinical and administrative processes

• Make appropriate decisions, using sound judgment

Cost Management/Financial Responsibility

• Use resources efficiently

• Search for less costly ways of doing things

Safety

• Speak up when team members appear to exhibit unsafe behavior or performance

• Continuously validate and verify information needed for decision making or documentation

• Stop in the face of uncertainty and takes time to resolve the situation

• Demonstrate accurate, clear and timely verbal and written communication

• Actively promote safety for patients, families, visitors and co-workers

• Attend carefully to important details - practicing Stop, Think, Act and Review in order to self-check behavior and performance