Competency Profile/Training Document RESEARCH TECHNICIAN

Transcription

1 RESEARCH TECHNICIAN Description of Work: Positions in this banded class support experimental processes in a laboratory, clinic, field and /or teaching environment (hereafter referred to as laboratory ). Work requires knowledge of applicable laboratory procedures, tests, techniques and terminology. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to: conducting experiments, collecting and summarizing data, and providing proper laboratory/study subject care. May repair research equipment and/or maintain research facility. Employees at the journey and advanced levels may serve as a lead worker. Competency Knowledge - Technical Operations - Research Support Data Collection Laboratory/Subject Care Definition Achieves technical skill or knowledge in a specific technical area(s) and keeps up with current developments and trends in areas of expertise. May be acquired through academic, apprenticeship or on-the-job training or a combination of these. Technical knowledge is used to perform duties that include standardized or specialized procedures and includes the ability to safely operate instruments and equipment. Follows instructions through a standard work process; performs routine or repetitious tasks; checks work for accuracy before completion of tasks. Supports scientific research by assisting in experiments, procedures, and/or tests; work requires mental concentration, visual attention and extensive manipulative skills to comply with research protocol. Observes, monitors, collects, and records data in order to assess accuracy, validity and integrity of data. Provides care for study subject (i.e. patient, animal, crop) within research protocol; maintains optimal conditions to enhance development of study subject and to prevent disease and contamination; works with study subjects in an ethical manner. Definitions: Test A procedure in which the outcome is measured under various conditions. Procedure A sequence of actions that collectively accomplishes some desired task. Experiment The test of an hypothesis under controlled conditions. Note: Competency statements are progressive and not all competencies apply to every position/employee. Evaluate only those that apply. 1

2 Knowledge - Technical Achieves technical skill or knowledge in a specific technical area(s) and keeps up with current developments and trends in areas of expertise. May be acquired through academic, apprenticeship or on-the-job training or a combination of these. Technical knowledge is used to perform duties that include standardized or specialized procedures and includes the ability to safely operate instruments and equipment. 1. General knowledge of applicable area of science to perform laboratory procedures and tests in support of research protocol. 1. Basic knowledge, skill and general understanding to perform standard duties related to the research. 1. More in depth and specific knowledge in area of science related to the research project(s) essential to perform a variety of procedures. 2. Knowledge and skills to use instrumentation and equipment. 2. Knowledge and skills to adjust and calibrate instrumentation and equipment as needed with limited supervision. 2. Knowledge and ability to independently operate instrumentation, equipment and/or software used for research objectives. Definitions: Terminology The terms or systems of terms used in a specific science Basic Fundamental General Common or usual; not specific Specific Precise, definite; of a special or particular sort 2

3 Operations - Research Support Follows instructions through a standard work process; performs routine or repetitious tasks; checks work for accuracy before completion of tasks. Supports scientific research by assisting in experiments, procedures, and/or tests; work requires mental concentration, visual attention and extensive manipulative skills to comply with research protocol. 1. Conducts routine tests and procedures dictated by the research protocol.* 1. Prepares standard media, reagents, and chemical solutions used for testing purposes, and the physical processing of specimens prior to testing. 2. Observes and measures subjects (patients, animals or crops) and test variables as specified in the research protocol. Prepares study subjects for experimental procedures. 2. Assists in the layout and maintenance of subject environment.*** 1. Performs and/or assists in specialized research procedures, tests, minor animal surgery and/or agricultural practices.** 2. Independently prepares and maintains the layout of subject environment.*** 3. N/A 3. Mixes and/or applies chemicals and/or other materials in accordance with state/federal regulations. 3. Calculates appropriate quantities of chemical(s) to ensure they are properly mixed and applied. * For example, prepares tissue samples for immunochemical analyses, conducts pregnancy checks, assists in calving or farrowing, inoculates animals, selects pairs for routine breeding, and euthanasia. ** For example, molecular and biochemical procedures, protein purification, in vitro enzyme analyses, artificial insemination procedures, and care of gnotobiotic animals. *** For example, field plots, subject housing arrangements, and benchwork. 3

4 Data Collection Observes, monitors, collects, and records data to assess accuracy, validity and integrity of data. 1. Organizes and tabulates data; ensures quality control of data collection. 1. Observes, collects and records a variety of data. 1. Identifies and reports variations or discrepancies in the data; organizes and prepares data for analyses. 2. N/A 2. N/A 2. Provides preliminary summary of procedures and tests, and other components of experiments. 4

5 Laboratory/Subject Care Provides care for study subject (i.e. patient, animal, crop) within research protocol; maintains optimal conditions to enhance development of study subject and to prevent disease and contamination; works with study subjects in an ethical manner. 1. Administers routine medications and prepares experimental and maintenance diets for research subjects according to established protocols and instructions; observes study subject reactions. 1. Provides routine care, maintenance and/or animal husbandry. Obtains specimen collections. 1. Administers specialized medications or chemical treatments according to established protocols; monitors and reports study subject reactions. 2. Applies and maintains standard sanitation and safety procedures. 3. Operates and provides routine maintenance for basic equipment. 4.. Notifies appropriate staff of inventory shortage. 2. Applies and maintains sanitation and safety procedures in non-routine situations. Pursues appropriate safety training, certificates, and certifications/licenses, where applicable. 3. Performs minor repairs to equipment in support of research laboratory, field, or clinical programs with limited supervision. Operates varied equipment and instrumentation. 4. Maintains inventory of equipment, supplies, and related research materials. 2. Ensures compliance with sanitation and safety procedures by others. 3.Independently performs minor repairs to equipment in support of research laboratory, field, or clinical programs. Operates specialized research equipment and instrumentation. 4. Identifies, tracks and reports variations or discrepancies in inventory used in laboratory; may distribute supplies. 5.. N/A 5. N/A 5. Coordinates tests, procedures and experiments with ancillary units. 5

6 Training and Experience Guidelines: Combination of training and experience required to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. Contributing: Related knowledge and experience required to perform assigned duties. Journey: High school and one year of directly related experience required to perform the assigned duties. Advanced: High school and two years of directly related experience required to perform the assigned duties. Special Note: This is a generalized representation of positions in this class and is not intended to identify essential work functions per ADA. Examples of competencies are primarily those of the majority of positions in this class, but may not be applicable to all positions. 6

7 RESEARCH SPECIALIST Description of Work: Positions in this banded class plan, develop, conduct and evaluate scientific research in a laboratory, clinic, field and/or teaching environment (hereafter referred to as laboratory ). Employees in these positions understand the context and implications of the research in order to apply and interpret theoretical knowledge necessary to conduct research in one or more scientific disciplines. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to: project planning, experimental design, developing methodology, conducting procedures, modifying procedures as needed, data collection and analysis, laboratory management, project management, preparing publications and reports, and communication and instruction. Employees demonstrate and model effective mental concentration, visual attention and manipulative skills. Work may include the training and supervision of staff, students and others in performing specific techniques or phases of experiments. Competency Definition Knowledge Professional/Scientific Achieves a high level of professional/scientific skill or knowledge in specific area(s) and keeps up with current developments and trends in area(s) of expertise. Knowledge of the scientific principles, methods and processes (technical and/or theoretical) used to conduct a systematic and objective inquiry including study design, methods of data collection and analysis, and interpreting and reporting results; ability to operate instruments and equipment; knowledge of related information technology. Research Design Identifies and develops research objectives, methods and quality control measures based on literature searches; plans methods and techniques to meet research objectives; may modify and/or refine procedures, methods and techniques as needed; identifies and plans for research project resources and methods of data collection. Conducting Experiments/Procedures Performs tests, procedures and experiments applying specialized skills, knowledge and equipment; modifies and refines techniques and procedures to meet research objectives; manages multiple, concurrent projects or a multi-faceted project. Data Analysis Performs statistical analysis; interprets and evaluates results; prepares reports and/or presentations; monitors and collects research data to assess accuracy, validity, and integrity. Laboratory Management Provides oversight of technical programs and administrative activities in a research setting - research laboratories and/or agricultural research stations including quality assurance and safety programs; coordinates and manages facilities, equipment, supplies and related resources; monitors environmental risks and quality control; understands and complies with safety standards to maintain a safe environment. Communication Clearly and concisely conveys information verbally and in written form; effectively presents ideas to individuals or groups to ensure that they understand the information and message. Presents research results and summaries; adheres to reporting requirements of research project(s); contributes to the writing of publications and reports. Instruction Instructs and trains staff, students, faculty and/or other clients in the performance of procedures and operation of equipment. Note: Competency statements are progressive and not all competencies apply to every position/employee. Evaluate only those that apply. For positions with some supervision consider the highest level of professional work performed. 1

8 Knowledge Professional/Scientific Achieves a high level of professional/scientific skill or knowledge in specific area(s) and keeps up with current developments and trends in area(s) of expertise. Knowledge of the scientific principles, methods and processes (technical and/or theoretical) used to conduct a systematic and objective inquiry including study design, methods of data collection and analysis, and interpreting and reporting results; ability to operate instruments and equipment; knowledge of related information technology. 1. Responds to changing research conditions by modifying the research process. 1. Understands research and regulatory standards to maintain a laboratory environment. 1. Proposes alternative research methods, techniques and initiatives demonstrating knowledge of other scientific areas and related research. 2. Knowledge and ability to conduct scientific literature reviews where applicable. 3. Understands scientific principles to conduct research procedure in order to operate laboratory instruments and equipment. 2. Knowledge and ability to adapt work process and methods based on findings and literature review with limited supervision. 3. Understands scientific principles to modify procedures in response to changing conditions; designs and/or operates highly-specialized instruments and/or equipment. 2. Knowledge and ability to independently adapt work process and methods based on findings and literature review; may contribute new knowledge and/or techniques. 3. Demonstrates scientific knowledge and analytical skills to monitor, modify, and design the research process. Designs, modifies, and troubleshoots highly specialized equipment. Definitions: Process work involving a number of steps and/or operations. Procedure method or manner chosen 2

9 Research Design Identifies and develops research objectives, methods and quality control measures based on literature searches; plans methods and techniques to meet research objectives; may modify and/or refine procedures, methods and techniques as needed; identifies and plans for research project resources and methods of data collection. 1. Use research literature to compare techniques and/or recommend and propose design alternatives with approval by PI. Identify and determine methods, procedures, and techniques to support research design with limited supervision. 1. Searches literature demonstrating an understanding of scientific, experimental and/or research theory to assist in the design of methods, procedures and/or techniques. 2. Identifies data to be collected and documented. 2. Identifies and recommends data collection methodology. 1. Independently expands scope of literature search to support and/or propose alternative experimental methods, procedures and/or techniques. 2. Collaborates with others to plan and design data collection, technology and analysis.* 3. Identifies resources needed to conduct experiments (e.g., equipment, materials). 4. Monitors expenditures used to acquire resources for experiments 5. Monitors and reports quality control measures. 3. Plans and documents how resource materials (e.g., equipment, materials)needed to conduct experiments can be acquired. 4. Prepares/assists in research project budget(s). 5. Assists in designing quality control measures. 3. Plans, modifies, and adjusts resources needed to conduct experiments. 4. Gathers information to prepare budget and proposes estimates for acquisition of supplies and equipment. 5. Plans and designs specific quality control measures and procedures as part of research protocol. 6. N/A 6. Assists in the development of research protocols. 6. Drafts research protocols. * For example, statistical analysis software. 3

10 Conducting Experiments/Procedures Performs tests, procedures and experiments requiring specialized skills, knowledge and equipment; modifies and refines techniques and procedures to meet research objectives; manages multiple, concurrent projects or a multi-faceted project. 1. Identifies problems, troubleshoots and analyzes variations observed and reported in regular testing protocols; modifies, refines or adapts techniques and procedures; modifies and/or adjusts quality control measures. 1. Conducts tests, experiments, and/or procedures following standard or detailed protocol; identifies and documents variations that may affect the validity of the experiment. 1. Analyzes and resolves variations in complex tests, experiments and procedures; designs and implements modifications and changes to techniques, procedures and quality control measures..3. N/A.3. Coordinates and/or conducts multiple, concurrent assignments or a multi-faceted project..3. Leads multiple, concurrent projects and/or multi-faceted projects; directs others in making modifications. 2. Masters basic proficiency of a specialized technique or procedure. 2. Serves as an expert in conducting a specialized technique(s) or procedure(s). 2. Serves as an expert in a specialized area of research to influence research conclusions. Definitions: Test a procedure in which the outcome is measured under various conditions. Procedure a sequence of actions that collectively accomplishes some desired task. Experiment the test of a hypothesis under controlled conditions. Technique a way of using skills to carry out a scientific operation. 4

11 Data Analysis Performs statistical analysis; interprets and evaluates results; prepares reports and/or presentations; monitors and collects research data to assess accuracy, validity, and integrity. 1. Collects and analyzes data for accuracy, validity and integrity. 1. Collects data and monitors data quality and accuracy as required by research protocol. 2. Maintains appropriate documentation of research results, as required by research protocol. 3. Recommends revisions to experimental methods based upon observations of the data. 2. Monitors documentation of results; reviews and recognizes documentation which may lead to modification and adaptation of research methodologies; may collaborate with others. 3. Adapts and/or modifies experimental methods based upon interpretation of data. 1. Defines standards for the collection of data; sets standards for accuracy, validity and integrity; leads others in analysis. 2. Evaluates documentation of results; leads efforts to modify and adapt research methodologies in collaboration with others; ensures compliance with regulatory standards. 3. Adapts experimental design based upon interpretation of data and/or literature review, in collaboration with others. 5

12 Laboratory Management Provides oversight of technical programs and administrative activities in a research setting - research laboratories and/or agricultural research stations including quality assurance and safety programs; coordinates and manages facilities, equipment, supplies and related resources; monitors environmental risks and quality control; understands and complies with safety standards to maintain a safe environment. 1. Plans and monitors resources needed to operate the laboratory; maintains inventory control; coordinates space, field, equipment and/or facilities; may monitor expenditures. 1. Maintains laboratory resources including supplies, equipment and facilities. 1. Manages laboratory resources, may include budget and personnel; establishes priorities in the use of resources including space, field, equipment and/or facilities. 2. Understands and executes quality assurance. 2. Evaluates and modifies quality assurance procedures. 2. Manages quality assurance program. 3. Coordinates and trains others to ensure compliance with safety measures and guidelines.* 3. Manages compliance with safety measures and guidelines.* 3. Develops, reviews, and revises safety plans and training.* * such as hazardous waste/materials 6

13 Communication Clearly and concisely conveys information verbally and in written form; effectively presents ideas to individuals or groups to ensure that they understand the information and message. Presents research results and summaries; adheres to reporting requirements of research project(s); contributes to the writing of publications and reports. 1. Leads exchange of research information through demonstration and instruction. 1. Communicates detailed outcomes and results of research.* 2..Contributes to presentations within the department. 2. Makes presentations within department and/or at professional conferences. 1. Leads, consults and makes recommendations in the area of research through effective communication about the research project(s). 2. Serves as primary presenter within department and/or at professional conferences. 3. Collects information for grant writing and reporting. 4. Assists in documentation of research findings; prepares reports. 3. Assists in grant writing and proposal development. 4. Contributes to preparation of publications and/or reports. 3. Collaborates in conception and design of research and in writing grants and proposals. 4. Co-authors/authors manuscripts and publications 7

14 Instruction Instructs and trains staff, students, faculty and/or others clients in performance of procedures and operation of equipment. 1. Instructs others in the performance of complex tests and procedures and the proper use and care of specialized equipment. Applies knowledge of instructional research methodology. May instruct lab section of a course. 1. Trains others in laboratory techniques and the use of laboratory equipment. 1. Instructs others in the operation of specialized equipment and/or research techniques and methodology. May have full responsibility for the lab section of a course. 2. Documents how to conduct procedures; reviews and maintains correct standard operations, procedures and protocols. 2. Documents experimental processes and results in reports and/or publications. 2. Collaborates with research staff and colleagues to validate and/or redirect research based on documented results. * Oral and/or written Training and Experience Guidelines: Combination of training and experience necessary to perform the work. Contributing: 4 year degree; or an equivalent combination of training and/or related experience. Journey: 4 year degree + 1 year of directly related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and/or related experience. Advanced: 4 year degree + 3 years of directly related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and/or related experience. Special Note: This is a generalized representation of positions in this class and is not intended to identify essential work functions per ADA. Examples of competencies are primarily those of the majority of positions in this class, but may not be applicable to all positions. 8

15 RESEARCH OPERATIONS MANAGER Description of Work: The primary role of this position is to manage and supervise all activities necessary to operate one or more research work settings such as a laboratory, clinic, field and/or classroom (hereafter referred to as laboratory ). Work requires knowledge of research concepts, practices and procedures, laboratory operations, regulatory requirements, and planning and budgeting. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to: facility planning and maintenance, inventory control, purchasing and maintenance of laboratory equipment, fiscal and administrative services, monitoring environmental risks and quality control, planning and scheduling work, determining staff assignments and training need, and human resources management. NOTE: The scope and complexity of the operations for the area(s) managed are considered as factors in determining the appropriate level. Competency Definition Knowledge Professional/Scientific Achieves a high level of professional/scientific skill or knowledge in specific area(s) and keeps up with current developments and trends in area(s) of expertise. Knowledge of scientific/agricultural concepts, principles, practices and methods used to conduct sound research; serves as a resource on technical and program-related issues for staff and others; knowledge of related technology, instruments and equipment. Planning and Organizing Work Develops plans to accomplish work operations and objectives; arranges and assigns work to use resources efficiently. At the advanced level, planning is of a strategic nature to develop plans, organizational structures, and systems to fulfill legislative or mission driven organizational goals. Plans, develops and executes research operations; arranges and assigns work to best use research project funds. Budgeting Plans and monitors the use of expenditures to meet organizational objectives and compliance; prepares budget documents and reports; systematically plans and monitors research project expenditures. Human Resources Management Recruits, selects, develops, counsels, disciplines, and evaluates performance of employees to retain a diverse workforce; administers and ensures compliance with human resources policies and procedures. Observes and assesses work; provides feedback to staff, students, faculty and/or other clients; may provide technical supervision; develops knowledge, skills and abilities of staff, students, faculty and/or other clients; plans and supports employees in career development opportunities. Laboratory Management Provides oversight of technical programs and administrative activities in a research setting - research laboratories and/or agricultural research stations including quality assurance and safety programs; coordinates and manages facilities, equipment, supplies and related resources; monitors environmental risks and quality control; understands and complies with safety standards to maintain a safe environment. Note: Competency standards are progressive and not all competencies apply to every position/employee. Evaluate only those that apply. 1

16 Knowledge Professional/Scientific Achieves a high level of professional/scientific skill or knowledge in specific area(s) and keeps up with current developments and trends in area(s) of expertise. Knowledge of scientific and/or agricultural concepts, principles, practices and methods used to conduct or manage sound research; serves as a resource on technical and program-related issues for staff and others; knowledge of related technology, instruments and equipment. 1. Applies scientific knowledge to plan, direct and manage complex and/or multiple programs or operations. 1. Applies scientific knowledge to plan, direct and manage day-to-day operations of unit or area of responsibility; stays current with changes in applicable field. 1. Directs, researches, investigates and develops innovative approaches to unique work situations. 2

17 Planning and Organizing Work Develops plans to accomplish work operations and objectives; arranges and assigns work to use resources efficiently. At the advanced level, planning is of a strategic nature to develop plans, organizational structures, and systems to fulfill legislative or mission driven organizational goals. Plans, develops and executes research operations; arranges and assigns work to best use research project funds. 1. Determines long-range plans and schedules within established research objectives; assists in preparing grant proposals. 1. Plans work operations and priorities daily or weekly to meet research objectives; sets shortrange deadlines; provides instructions to others. 1. Determines multiple and more complex long-range plans and schedules within established research objectives; collaborates in preparation of grant proposals. 2. Assesses the needs of the laboratory and recommends changes in procedures, workflow and staff assignments. 2. Implements changes in procedures, workflow and staff assignments. 2. Arranges and assigns work for multiple research projects and/or laboratories. 3

18 Budgeting Plans and monitors the use of expenditures to meet organizational objectives and compliance; prepares budget documents and reports; systematically plans and monitors research project expenditures. 1. Operates within assigned budget; identifies 1. Monitors expenditures and identifies 1. Makes and approves major expenditures. potential cost savings. potential budget issues. Prepares budget(s) for research proposals; recommends needed expenditures and revisions to the project budget(s). 4

19 Human Resources Management Recruits, selects, develops, counsels, disciplines, and evaluates performance of employees to retain a diverse workforce; administers and ensures compliance with human resources policies and procedures. Observes and assesses work; provides feedback to staff, students, faculty and/or other clients; may provide technical supervision; develops knowledge, skills and abilities of staff, students, faculty and/or other clients; plans and supports employees in career development opportunities. 1. Assigns and monitors work of staff; reviews work of staff upon completion to assess and problem solve. 1. Reviews accomplishments to ensure research project objectives are met; conducts final review for most complex research protocols to assess and problem solve. 1. Manages and designs implementation of new programs; administered by staff. 2. Models work/job duties for employees. 2. Plans for and delivers on-the-job training. 2. Determines training needs and provides training to specific employees; ensures employees have tools and knowledge to comply with research protocol and regulatory requirements; develops training programs. 3. Reviews and approves routine human resources policies questions and requests; may participate in recruitment and selection process and/or performance assessment. 3. Participates in recruitment and selection process; conducts performance management; ensures human resources policies and related information is shared with employees. 3. Determines work unit design; applies policies to execute operational needs. 4. Identifies problems and brings to the attention to appropriate people; resolves minor problems and complaints on an informal basis. 4. Participates in resolution of disciplinary and grievance issues. 4. Resolves disciplinary and grievance issues. 5. Identifies and recommends career development opportunities with employees. 5. Ensures employees have access to tools and information for career development opportunities. 5. Plans and coordinates career development opportunities. 5

20 Laboratory Management Provides oversight of technical programs and administrative activities in a research setting - research laboratories and/or agricultural research stations including quality assurance and safety programs; coordinates and manages facilities, equipment, supplies and related resources; monitors environmental risks and quality control; understands and complies with safety standards to maintain a safe environment. 1. Plans resources needed to operate the laboratory; maintains inventory control; coordinates space, field, equipment and/or facilities; may monitor expenditures. 1. Manages laboratory resources, may include budget and personnel; establishes priorities in the use of resources including space, field, equipment and/or facilities. 1. Manages and monitors multiple and/or complex laboratory resources, including budget and personnel; establishes priorities in the use of resources including space, field, equipment and/or facilities. 2. Understands and executes quality assurance. Understands and complies with safety standards to maintain a safe environment. 2. Evaluates and modifies quality assurance and safety standards for unit and/or site. 2. Manages and improves quality assurance and safety program(s). 3. N/A 3. Ensures adherence to procedures and work standards; recommends changes. 3. Manages adherence to procedures and work standards; implements adjustments or changes to work standards; anticipates changes Experience and Training Guidelines: Graduation from a four-year college or university and two years of general research experience preferably with supervision; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Familiarity with a variety of the research fields concepts, practices and procedures. Demonstrated experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Special Note: This is a generalized representation of positions in this class and is not intended to identify essential work functions per ADA. Examples of competencies are primarily those of the majority of positions in this class, but may not be applicable to all positions. 6