Department of Pathobiology | Technologists

Welcome to the Pathobiology Laboratory Research Assistant Website!

This website has been developed to establish a network of peers for the purpose of sharing resources and experience for the betterment of our research.

Lab assistant.The mere title can conjure up a picture of a hunch-backed, wide-eyed assistant that goes by the name Igor - a scary-looking shadow of a person, obediently following behind the mad scientist, as he collects bones and brains and other body parts for his nefarious experiments. But that’s only in the movies.
In reality, the lab assistant, or research technician, is an important part of a scientific lab, participating in high-tech, high-profile research that, in some instances, saves lives. The research technician is the workhorse of the lab. They set up, operate, and maintain the lab equipment. They test, monitor, and keep detailed logs of the experiments. Most of the work is not glamorous, and can at times be mundane. More experienced technicians maintain complex computer equipment, interpret data, develop conclusions, and devise solutions to problems under the direction of the scientist in charge…. Research technicians are exposed to dangerous chemicals, toxic materials, and even infectious diseases on a daily basis. It takes a clear mind and a steady hand to work in a lab.
The research technician may not get all the glory of the scientist; but without them, the scientist is like a conductor without an orchestra.