At the forefront of medical discovery as it relates to understanding the causes of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, Pennington Biomedical Research Center is a campus of Louisiana State University and conducts basic, clinical and population research. The Center includes Basic Science, Clinical Research, and Population and Public Health, enabling both focused research and translational science. Research at Pennington Biomedical is supported broadly by multiple NIH Research Centers, and includes approximately 65 faculty and 20 postdoctoral fellows who comprise a network of 44 laboratories and 13 highly specialized core service facilities. Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a world-renowned academic research institute of Louisiana State University, is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Specialist in the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory.
The Clinical Laboratory Specialist plays a key support role within the Clinical Chemistry Core Laboratory, a full-service, CLIA- and CAP-accredited facility operating under Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. This entry-level position is ideal for individuals with a background in life sciences who are eager to gain hands-on experience in clinical research and laboratory operations. The assistant will support a variety of functions including specimen processing, data entry, regulatory documentation, and quality assurance. Working alongside licensed medical technologists, phlebotomists, and research staff, this position will contribute to the successful execution of clinical trials and research studies conducted by Pennington Biomedical, the U.S. Army Institute of Environmental Medicine (USARIEM), and other institutional partners.
Major Responsibilities
Assist in the preparation, labeling, and processing of biological specimens (e.g., blood, urine) for analysis.
Support licensed technologists in routine testing procedures across departments such as Chemistry, Hematology, and Special Chemistry.
Maintain sample integrity by following proper storage, transport, and documentation protocols.
Accurately record laboratory data and observations in compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and study protocols.
Enter and verify data in laboratory research databases.
Assist in compiling reports and summaries for internal use and external clients (e.g., USARIEM, Pennington Biomedical researchers).
Help maintain regulatory documentation, including logs, SOPs, and audit-ready files.
Participate in internal quality control and proficiency testing activities required by CLIA, CAP, and CDC programs.
Ensure compliance with institutional and federal guidelines for clinical research.
Support participant scheduling, check-in, and sample collection processes in collaboration with phlebotomy and clinical staff.
Communicate with study coordinators and investigators to ensure timely and accurate sample handling.
Assist in tracking study timelines, sample volumes, and deliverables.
Monitor and restock laboratory supplies and reagents.
Assist with equipment maintenance, calibration logs, and cleanliness of workspaces.
Ensure biosafety and infection control protocols are followed.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Science, Public Health), or related discipline.
Basic understanding of laboratory safety, specimen handling, and clinical research principles.
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, regulated environment.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and basic data entry tools.
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience in a clinical, research, or academic laboratory setting (e.g., internship, volunteer, or part-time work).
Familiarity with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), CLIA, or CAP guidelines.
Experience using Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) or electronic data capture systems (e.g., REDCap).
Phlebotomy certification or experience handling biological specimens is a plus.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center (PBRC) is an equal employment opportunity employer and serves as a model employer for individuals with disabilities.
The approved hiring range for the position is $40,000 - $45,000. The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and relevant experience.
Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For more information, visit PBRC.
Questions regarding career opportunities at Pennington Biomedical should be sent to hrm@pbrc.edu.
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - Pennington Biomedical Research Center offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Questions or concerns can be directed to PBRC Human Resources at 225-763-2776 or hrm@pbrc.edu.