Eye Bank Scientist I

Eye bank scientists have the primary responsibility of preparing donated human eye tissue for transplant. Duties also include various operational tasks required to maintain a safe and productive laboratory environment. Eye bank scientists are required to adhere to all Lions Gift of Sight (LGS), Eye Bank Association of America (EBAA), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) policies, procedures, standards, and regulations.

This is a part time 30 hours, (.75% FTE) on-site benefits-eligible position with a variable schedule, including routinely scheduled weekday, weekend, and holiday shifts. Lab staff are considered "critical employees", expected to report to work during emergency closures, unless specifically instructed not to report to work at these times.

Description of Duties:

I. Evaluation (30%)
A. Perform slit lamp biomicroscopy, specular microscopy, pachymetry, and Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) to assign transplant suitability
B. Record evaluation findings in donor management system and provide findings and feedback to internal teams
C. Report tissue evaluation findings and suitability information to advance the eligibility determination process

II. Lab Operations (30%)
A. Shipping of specimens and tissue, including inspection, labeling, and packaging. B. Clean, inspect, and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
Eye Bank Scientist I - Job Description
C. Assemble procedure trays
D. Perform scheduled cleaning and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment E. Complete environmental monitoring and submit specimens for microbial and fungal testing

III. Processing (30%)
A. Perform tissue processing via microkeratome and manual dissection for various applications including keratoplasty, sclera preservation, and routine transfers and modifications for proper viewing, handling, and storage
B. Perform surgical circulation duties for processing procedures
C. Provide consistent and thorough documentation and precise post-processing tissue outcomes
D. Document and participate in quality systems investigations

IV. Supply & Inventory (5%)
A. Prepare kits for laboratory processing and tissue recovery procedures

B. Assist in receiving, inspecting, and labeling supplies
C. Serve as backup supply and inventory staff during absences monitoring time-critical supply shipments

V. Technical Procedures and Process Improvement (5%)
A. Achieve and maintain an understanding of equipment including refrigeration equipment, autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, centrifuges, microscopes, and other electronic and mechanical ophthalmology equipment
B. Participate in research and development of novel techniques and analysis of product alternatives, including supplies, instruments, and equipment
C. Assist in written procedure creation and revision, validation, and training

VI. General Duties (all times)
A. Take initiative to improve processes and act entrepreneurially to benefit the organization
B. Other duties as assigned by supervisor

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree in biological sciences, biomedical sciences, mortuary sciences or related field and work experience to equal at least four years
• Highly analytical and particularly attentive to detail and data accuracy
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Ability to work effectively on a team and resolve conflicts calmly and effectively
• Self-motivated with an ability to creatively problem solve and adapt to a changing environment
• Excellent computer skills. Proficient in common programs such as the Microsoft Suite

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated skills in microscopy, microsurgery, and aseptic techniques
• Laboratory/medical equipment operation and maintenance experience
• Experience working in a regulated environment
  

The Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences and its success is built upon the innovation and drive of every member of our team, from faculty to administrators to technicians. Put simply, all of us are driven to provide the best eye care for our patients, discover new treatments, and educate the next generation of eye care professionals.

For more information, please visit our website at https://med.umn.edu/Ophthalmology.

Lions Gift of Sight (use both Ophthalmology and LGS in About the Department)

Lions Gift of Sight (formerly Minnesota Lions Eye Bank) was established after the partnership between the Lions and the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Neurosciences came to life in 1960, providing donor eye tissue for transplant, research, and teaching and promoting donation through education. Lions Gift of Sight has helped restore sight to more than 22,000 people by providing cornea tissue for transplantation and is one of the largest and most successful eye banks in the world.

For more information, please visit our website at: https://www.lionsgiftofsight.org/

Pay Range: $24.04 to $28.53 per hour, we anticipate most offers will be around the midpoint of this range, depending on education and experience.

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, pharmacy and disability plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).