Lab Support Associate - RI Biopath Moyer - Nationwide Children's Hospital

The Biopathology Center (BPC) within The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital is a primarily grant-funded biorepository with the objective of acquisition and long-term storage of a large number of cancerous, normal and diseased biospecimens and related data. These biospecimens are used to support and facilitate cutting edge research and advancing clinical patient care. In accordance with provisions of approved protocols, the BPC currently serves as biorepositories for the Children’s Oncology Group (COG), NRG Oncology, SWOG (formerly the Southwestern Oncology Group), the Pediatric Division of the Collaborative Human Tissue Network (pCHTN), internal investigators, and other sponsor groups. This is a fast-paced, team-oriented laboratory that requires the ability to work well under pressure and maintain constant attention to detail. The position requires frequent communication via phone and email with submitting institutions as well as internal coordinating laboratories. This role does not perform hypothesis-based research or analysis on the biospecimens – we serve a supporting role to facilitate research. The Lab Support Associate is responsible for providing clerical and general support to the Biospecimen Processing and Receiving Laboratory. Duties include, but are not limited to, transportation of specimens, providing effective communication with regards to specimens and collection information, and providing an appropriate link to other lab sections when needed. Should project a professional image through direct and indirect communication to both internal and external Nationwide Children’s Hospital customers.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrates the technical and computer skills required for supporting laboratory functions of the Biopathology Center 
• Performs clerical tasks which will include specimen handling while maintaining knowledge of processing protocols and understands how to obtain basic information related to cooperative group protocols 
• Records specimen receipt accurately in research databases, LIS, LIMS, and/or other related software as indicated
• Communicates frequently with internal and external customers to complete the appropriate documentation of paperwork and specimens received 
• Delivers specimens to the designated laboratories
• Retrieves and stores samples as requested 
• Records functions in the laboratory information systems in an adequate and timely manner 
• Maintains equipment and performs maintenance on equipment using the written protocols established 
• Assists in ordering supplies and manages working inventory
• Prepares reagents and laboratory supplies for use 
• Performs routine and safety program checks
• Performs and documents daily, weekly and monthly operational tasks as assigned 
• Performs other related duties as assigned Demonstrates knowledge of and upholds applicable laws and regulation related to the position and maintains a safe environment
• Wears appropriate personal protective equipment as designated by lab area 
• Reports spills and hazardous situations immediately and acts appropriately
• Follows established guidelines for access, use and disclosure of patient information
• Documents corrective action/incidents as needed 
• Participates in quality assurance and continuing education programs Participates in appropriate training and coaching for the Biopathology Center 
• Reviews and acknowledges procedures within established timeframes 
• Completes all assigned training and competency assessments on or prior to deadlines 
• Demonstrates the ability to communicate respectfully with coworkers, staff, patients, parents and clients • Continuously be the best at providing customer service in an efficient and effective manner to assure customer satisfaction and quality patient care 
• Required to complete at least twelve hours of approved continuing education, yearly 
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Manager and Lead Coordinator Demonstrates the ability to make determinations regarding course of action and alternatives by addressing problems, using resolutions and basic troubleshooting skills as applicable to assigned work 
• Uses information from quality control checks to predict and avoid problems 
• Demonstrates the ability to adjust to change, handle interruptions and function with changing circumstances 
• Maintains knowledge of status of projects as assigned to them
• Displays a positive attitude, limits criticism to constructive and provides sound solutions for problems as they arise Provides courteous and informative internal and external customer service 
• Treats each patient/family and research project as a top priority 
• Takes responsibility to resolve customers’ concerns
• Assures that the customers’ expectation drives behaviors
• Continuously improves the quality of the services offered 
• Aspires to the NCH Vision 
• Best Outcomes in everything we do, together delivering the best health care for children. 
• Enhancing the health of children by engaging in high quality cutting edge-research according to the highest scientific and ethical standards.
• Commits to the NCH core values 
• Do the right thing 
• Create a safe day every day 
• Promote health and well-being 
• Are agile and innovative 
• Get results

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. High school diploma or equivalent and one to two years laboratory/ medical experience.

2. Computer skills, as well as excellent organizational, communication, attention to detail and self-management skills.

3. Maintains and foster interpersonal relationships with internal and external customers.

4. Presents information through oral and written communication effectively.

5. Works efficiently and independently promoting a team environment and maintaining a cooperative and supportive atmosphere.

MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for more than 1 hour at a time, sit for more than 1 hour at a time.
• Good visual and auditory acuity.
• Full use of hands and arms.
• Ability to speak clearly.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Must complete colorblind test.
• The above list of duties is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this classification.

EOE M/F/Disability/Vet