Research Scientist - Department of Biology

About the Opportunity

This position will operate and manage all molecular laboratory aspects of our statewide wastewater testing program, including regular routine sample testing, troubleshooting, managing laboratory supplies, and related tasks. The Research Scientist will be responsible for uninterrupted laboratory operations and report directly to the Program Director. They will collaborate on reports, manuscripts, and other deliverables as required by our wastewater testing grant. They will develop new workflows in response to leadership requests to onboard new wastewater targets. They will lead research efforts involving novel questions around the use of wastewater testing.

What You'll Do

• Laboratory sample analysis through digital and droplet digital PCR (and associated protocols).
• Operation of testing laboratory, including ordering supplies, troubleshooting protocols, recommending actions to the Director, oversight of student interns and other group members.
• Development of new workflows for program targets (pathogens, biomarkers) as identified by program leadership.
• Leadership of small groups built around relevant research topics, including the prototyping of novel methodologies for wastewater testing and data analysis.
• Preparation of reports and manuscripts as required by our grant(s).

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biology, molecular biology, or related field.
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience involving high-throughput digital PCR, QX and/or Qiacuity systems
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in each of the following: Genome sequencing, ONT and/or Illumina platforms (library preparation through data interpretation); Work within biosafety cabinet or PCR workstation environments; Work with biosafety level 2 pathogens; Bioinformatics on HPC (cluster) environments; Data analysis & visualization using R; Experimental design and troubleshooting