Career Center

Perform all tasks of BLS study protocol pertaining to the biobanking of research specimens (e.g., store, manage, and provide archival specimens and data to the research community). Coordinate complex requests and collaborative efforts. Manage the BLS specimen database. Ensure workflows and activities for BLS biobanking are compliant with regulatory requirements, hospital policies, and IRB policies. Serve as i) a technical resource for investigators and their study teams and ii) a research liaison for clinical services to streamline research requests while prioritizing patient care and confidentiality.

Essential Functional or Job Duties

30% Support for Investigator Protocols

• Ensure all aspects of BLS support for investigators is carried out in an ethically, scientifically, rigorous, and timely manner that prioritizes patient care and confidentiality
• Review specimen requests for feasibility of BLS support: query BLS specimen database, review medical charts including pathology and other lab reports, leverage knowledge of disease indications, apply patient inclusion and exclusion criteria, etc.
• Ensure supported projects meet all applicable policies prior to sample distribution
• Coordinate with investigators and study teams on complex requests and collaborative efforts, including coordination with other BLS divisions and UMN research support groups
• Coordinate with Pathology for quality control of specimens
• Coordinate, document, and execute compliant distribution of biological specimens
• Troubleshoot, document, and resolve issues that may arise
• Educate and train investigators and their study teams on BLS protocol and scope of practice
• Provide budget estimates to study teams
• Review, approve, and execute on custodial storage requests: project initiation, material transfer logistics, coordinate with study team, billing, documentation, etc.
• Review, approve, and execute on data requests: project initiation, chart review, data abstraction, collaborating with bioinformatics, documentation, distribution on appropriate platforms, etc.

30% Data Management for BLS Study Protocol

• Ensure data practices are HIPAA compliant
• Perform entry and validation of all relevant BLS study data: medical chart (e.g., procedure data, treatment history, pathology reports, etc), sample processing, sample distribution, etc.
• Develop into subject matter expert of BLS study protocol database (BSI - Biological Specimen Inventory)
• Prepare and distribute abstracted data reports for supported study teams
• Troubleshoot, document, and resolve data inconsistencies and database issues
• Accession ~30K legacy samples into BSI
• Provide data support as needed to other BLS divisions

20% Biobanking for BLS Study Protocol

• Ensure biobanking aspects of the BLS protocol are carried out in an ethically, scientifically, rigorous, and timely manner that prioritizes patient care and confidentiality
• Ensure proper accession of all specimens collected for the BLS study protocol
• Manage specimen collection at two locations (Mayo Building, 1200 Washington Ave, etc.)
• Perform quality control and validation of specimens and data
• Ensure discrepancies are documented and resolved
• Document and manage sample distribution

10% Division and Program Support

• Evaluate needs and assess feasibility of BLS support for new protocols
• Perform monthly billing for BLS services provided
• Update procedures and workflows as needed to accommodate new protocols and changing needs
• Provide technical guidance for investigators and their study teams
• Author and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Train new staff, including students, on BLS study protocol, procedures, and policies
• Maintain a positive working environment that supports and encourages team members; mentor, provide guidance, and coach as needed
• Support other BLS divisions as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned by BLS program director and lead Repository Technician

10% Equipment and Infrastructure

• Ensure smooth operation of freezers, liquid nitrogen storage, label printers, and other infrastructure associated with the BLS Repository
• Organization and maintenance of freezers, including regular defrosting and cleaning
• Document equipment maintenance and function, request and monitor service and repair as needed
• Management of temperature monitoring system
• Respond and provide support during equipment failure

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required (preferred in biology, microbiology, or related laboratory or biomedical science) plus at least two years of experience, or a combination of related education and experience totaling at least six years.
• Excellent organization, detailed record keeping, and time management skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficient data entry and computer skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Excellent independent work ethic and teamwork skills
• Tolerance for ambiguity and willingness to troubleshoot projects per individual researcher specifications
• Ability to lift 50 lbs in order to left freezer racks as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Biorepository and/or other biomedical laboratory work experience
• Experience with electronic health records
• Familiarity with surgical pathology workflows and medical terminology
• Knowledge of universal precautions, lab safety procedures, and blood borne pathogens

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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