SCI-160: Science Laboratory Workplace Skills

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Follow, analyze, and update protocols, manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
2. Demonstrate proficiency in using standard laboratory instruments.
3. Perform critical laboratory calculations and measurements.
4. Demonstrate appropriate methods of recording and reporting experimental results.
5. Demonstrate proficiency in sample/specimen handling, including aseptic technique, avoidance of contamination, and "chain of custody" procedures.
6. Perform routine laboratory support work and conduct experiments utilizing good laboratory practices (GLPs).
7. Demonstrate understanding of good manufacturing practices (GMPs).
8. Demonstrate understanding of quality assurance and quality control practices.
9. Demonstrate laboratory safety skills, including identifying safety hazards, employing preventive safety measures, complying with safety and emergency procedures, and demonstrating appropriate care and use of equipment and facilities to ensure safety; demonstrate appropriate handling and disposal of chemical and biological materials in keeping with MSDS and worker protection standards (WPS).
10. Explain scientific accountability, ethical behavior, and confidentiality as they apply to the laboratory science industry.
11. Demonstrate proficiency in monitoring and maintaining a laboratory environment; understand and apply principles of sterilization and disinfection; clean and prepare workstation; monitor and record environmental conditions of facility.
12. Demonstrate understanding of and follow governmental and industry regulations.
13. Communicate in a professional manner both orally and in writing; write technical reports.
14. Demonstrate accepted social and work behaviors; demonstrate work ethic.
15. Identify and articulate a scientific question that has impact and relevance to society.
16. Apply the scientific method in various sub-disciplines to posed challenges.
17. Describe methods to collect, compare, contrast, analyze, and interpret different types of data.
18. Use databases to search and access scientific literature.
19. Explain the role of IRBs in research oversight.
20. Apply decision-making and problem-solving techniques to workplace situations.
21. Demonstrate effective teamwork skills and coordinate tasks with lab partners.
22. Describe the impact and structure of the biotechnology industry; explain differences between research and manufacturing; explain differences between commercial laboratory endeavors and academic research.
23. Demonstrate understanding of how to prepare for employment as a laboratory professional; demonstrate understanding of resume preparation, interview skills, and employment resources.