Lab Technician - UHCC Early Phase Clinical Research Center

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lab Technician plays a critical role in supporting clinical research trials at the UH Cancer Center Early Phase Clinical Research Center (EPCRC) by performing specialized laboratory procedures. This position is primarily responsible for the accurate and compliant handling, processing, and storage of biological specimens according to strict clinical trial protocols and regulatory standards (GCP, CLIA). The Technician ensures the integrity of the sample chain of custody, executes various lab assays efficiently, maintains essential laboratory equipment, and meticulously documents all activities to ensure the reliability and quality of research data. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication with the clinical research team.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS

• Receive, log, process, and store biological specimens in accordance with clinical trial protocols, maintaining the integrity and chain of custody for all samples.
• Prepare and ship specimens to central or external laboratories following IATA (International Air Transport Association) or other required regulations.
• Perform routine and specialized laboratory assays, tests, and analyses accurately and efficiently as defined by the study-specific protocol.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuges, freezers, analyzers) and troubleshoot issues as necessary.
• Ensure strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and all relevant local, state, and federal regulatory requirements (e.g., CLIA, OSHA).
• Maintain detailed and organized documentation of all lab work, test results, equipment maintenance, and quality control logs.
• Participate in internal and external quality assurance and proficiency testing programs.
• Monitor and manage laboratory supply inventory, including ordering, receiving, and rotating reagents and consumables to prevent shortages or expiration.
• Communicate promptly with clinical research staff regarding specimen status, protocol deviations, or unexpected test results.
• Assist in the development and revision of laboratory SOPs for clinical trial-specific procedures.
• Complies with all legal requirements and company policies.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education/Training/Experience

Minimum:

• Associate's degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution.
• Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, or biological sciences, or medical laboratory technology OR equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• One (1) year of laboratory experience, preferably in a clinical research, academic, or hospital laboratory setting.

Preferred:

• Clinical Laboratory Technologist (CLT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) certification (ASCP, AMT, or equivalent)

Skills/Knowledge

Minimum:

• Proficiency in standard laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, centrifugation, freezing, thawing) and aseptic technique.
• Working knowledge of laboratory safety protocols (e.g., OSHA, Bloodborne Pathogens).
• Ability to read, understand, and strictly adhere to complex, study-specific protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) for data entry and documentation.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.