"Research Associate (Environmental DNA Lab Technician)"

Position Details

Position Information

Requisition Number
S4717P

Home Org Name
Schl Fisheries Aquac Aquat Sci

Division Name
College of Agriculture

Position Title
Research Associate (Environmental DNA Lab Technician)

Job Class Code
HA02 B/C/D

Appointment Status
Full-time

Part-time FTE

Limited Term
Yes

Limited Term Length
1 year; continuation contingent upon funding and performance in the position

Job Summary
The School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences at Auburn University is seeking a Research Associate for a full-time position in the environmental DNA (eDNA) lab operated by Dr. Jessica Rieder. This position contributes to the Department of the Interior’s Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) Framework by assisting Auburn University in processing eDNA samples for invasive species surveillance. The role emphasizes generating high-quality eDNA data in collaboration with Federal, State, and Tribal partners to strengthen invasive species monitoring within the EDRR Network. This is a full-time, soft-money position that is funded for at least one year, with the potential for renewal.

Essential Functions
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Conduct eDNA laboratory procedures, including sample collection and filtration, DNA extraction, PCR /qPCR amplification, and potentially library preparation for high-throughput sequencing to generate metabarcoding eDNA data.
• Accurately track and manage samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or equivalent data management tools.
• Follow and help maintain standard operating procedures in alignment with Department of the Interior guidelines and Molecular Lab Network protocols.
• Assist in quality control assessments of molecular data and ensure accurate documentation of results and lab activities.
• Participate in bioinformatic preprocessing and analysis of sequencing data.
• Collaborate with team members to support field sampling and sample intake.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, presentations, and manuscripts as appropriate.
• Maintain rigorous contamination control by adhering to clean laboratory protocols.
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and cleanliness.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of eDNA research.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Research Associate II: Master’s degree and 2 years of experience in research practices and protocols relevant to the position.

Research Associate III: Master’s degree and 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols relevant to the position.

Research Associate IV: Master’s degree and 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols relevant to the position.

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities

• Molecular Laboratory Experience: Prior work in a molecular biology laboratory, including adherence to standard laboratory safety and contamination-prevention protocols.
• eDNA Workflow Knowledge: Familiarity with key eDNA workflow steps, encompassing sample filtration and extraction, PCR amplification, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).
• Laboratory Documentation: Ability to maintain detailed laboratory records and follow established standard operating procedures.
• Quality Control Awareness: Basic understanding of data quality control measures in molecular workflows.

Minimum Technology Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for documentation, data management, and presentations.

Minimum License and Certifications

Desired Qualifications

Desired Qualifications

• Molecular Laboratory Techniques: Proficient in using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and performing standard molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, and quantitative PCR.
• Attention to Detail & Standard Operating Policy Compliance: Meticulous record-keeping skills and the ability to follow standard operating procedures established by the U.S. Department of the Interior, supporting the Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) Framework and the Molecular Lab Network (MLN).
• Genomics Research Support: Experience in laboratory aspects of genomics research, including primer design, mitochondrial genome assembly, and sequence data analysis for target genes and metabarcoding datasets.
• Scientific Literacy: Understanding of relevant scientific disciplines (e.g., conservation genetics, ecology, molecular biology) to support informed decision-making.
• eDNA Laboratory Experience: Previous hands-on experience working in an eDNA laboratory setting.

Posting Detail Information

Salary Range
$44,450 - $96,230

Job Category
Research

Working Hours if Non-Traditional

City position is located in:
Auburn

State position is located:
Alabama

List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position

Posting Date
08/28/2025

Closing Date

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit their website to learn more.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Please utilize the attachment feature of the on-line application system and attach a cover letter and CV or resume. When prompted, please enter the contact information for three professional references. Only COMPLETE application materials will be considered.

Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://www.auemployment.com/postings/50946

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents

• Curriculum Vitae