Biorepository Technologist or Specialist

The Biorepository Specialist is responsible for tasks related to the accessioning, processing, storage, retrieval, disposal, and distribution/shipping of specimens and fixed histopathologic material such as formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue (FFPE) supporting many research studies active at St. Jude. The Biorepository Specialist is responsible for all aspects of tissue governance in the Department of Pathology. Under the direct supervision of the Biorepository Supervisor, the Biorepository Specialist's responsible for all aspects of assigned duties as scheduled. Job Responsibilities: Performs and determines the accuracy of routine and specialized procedures in the lab. Reviews the daily schedule and verifies specimen acquisitions on pending list. Coordinates and tracks shipment of specimens from non-St. Jude entities. May deliver and retrieve specimen samples to or from non-St. Jude entities. Performs the daily maintenance of refrigerators, freezers and additional equipment. Performs and confirms all preventive maintenance is conducted on critical equipment. Notifies appropriate personnel in event of equipment failure. Processes all specimens promptly and efficiently per SOP. Promptly distributes fresh specimens to various laboratories. Coordinates processing of FFPE specimens with Histology lab (e.g., microtome sectioning, specials stains and immunohistochemistry). Accurately and thoroughly completes worksheets and database entry. Retrieves specimens from freezers and updates specimen status in database. Processes and ships specimens for cooperative group protocols, clinical trials, etc. Discards specimens as directed. Resolves advanced laboratory problems. Assists with training of new staff members in the lab. Performs periodic internal assessments to ensure accuracy of records and SOP compliance. Maintains confidentiality, patient anonymity and compliance with all human subject protection guidelines. Complies with all requirements of the CAP Biorepository Accreditation Program. Enters, reviews and retrieves data within the hospital and laboratory computer applications. Enters diagnostic data, uploads and enters pathology report data and any additional information as requested into the biorepository LIMS. Assists in special projects compiling data. Prepares reports related to banked specimens or any laboratory issue as needed. Maintains essential study documents relevant to specimen processing, storage and shipping instructions for each study supported by Biorepository Core Facility. Assists in maintaining Quality Control (QC) records to meet department and hospital standards. Maintains accurate hard copy and electronic records. Troubleshoots and documents problems with equipment and takes proper and prompt action to preserve supplies and specimens. Prepares reagents per Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and documents the quality control measures used. Assists with resolving quality control problems. Reviews SOPs periodically and designs additional documents as needed. Promotes a positive work environment and supports a team-oriented atmosphere. Communicates with internal and external customers regarding information required for research studies. Ensures compliance with prescribed requirements of protocols related to specimen submission. Communicates with St. Jude cooperative group (e.g., COG/PBTC) offices to ensure timely retrieval or shipping of cooperative group material takes place. Communicates with Principle Investigators (PIs) and outside facilities to retrieve materials or information regarding research studies. Verifies receipt of requested material and liaises with Pathologists if there are issues with obtaining material. Assists in scheduling of workflow. Participates in on-call duty and works overtime as needed. Evaluates the workflow to determine and suggest new methods to improve efficiency. Assists co-workers during periods of high workload to complete assignments as needed. Informs Supervisor of problems with workflow. Informs Technical Director of problems with workflow. Inventories, receives and stores supplies. Monitors reagent & supply inventories to ensure continuity of lab operations. Responsible for ordering supplies. Stores supplies and reagents in proper areas and conditions. Completes and saves documentation of acquisition of supplies. Demonstrates commitment to professional growth and competence. Attends continuing education seminars and training. Determines and suggests additional training. Demonstrates knowledge of institutional and departmental policies and procedures. Assists in quality assurance programs as requested. Performs other related duties as assigned to support the goals and objectives of the institution, the Department, and laboratory. Maintains regular and predictable attendance. May deliver and retrieve specimen samples from non-St. Jude entities. Minimum Education and/or Training: Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology or in one of the biological, chemical or physical sciences. MT and MLT candidates must have completed an approved laboratory training program Minimum Experience: Four (4) years of Medical Technologist experience required. Eight (8) years of MLT experience required Five (5) years of biorepository experience if not MT or MLT Licensure, Registration and/or Certification Required by Law: Licensure, Registration and/or Certification Required by SJCRH Only: Current Hazardous Goods Shipping certification from the Department of Transportation required within one year of hire into the position. Must have a valid driver's license from the employee's state of residence and a valid insurance policy on the vehicle which meets the requirements for the state of Tennessee. Tennessee licensure as Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Technician is preferred. Certification as a Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Technician by ASCP or AMT preferred Qualification by the ASCP in Biorepository Science (QBRS) is required for non-MT or MLT candidates. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment. Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future. Other Information St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer No Search Firms St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.