Research Technician

Research Technician

Company:
North Carolina State University

Job Location:

Category:
Laboratory and Research

Type:
Full-Time

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Department: 110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology

Location: Raleigh, NC

Essential Job Duties:
A research technician is needed to support genome sequencing and ploidy estimation efforts in the lab. The selected individual will understand the fundamentals of research being performed and have the experience for independent operation of the lab, including troubleshooting protocols, creating documentation, and supporting students. Primary duties will be the management of the wet lab and the coordination of multiple concurrent projects. Research efforts will contribute to publications, grants, and presentations.

Duties:

• Provide day-to-day oversight on plants grown for specific genomics projects.
• Assist in the timely databasing of herbarium specimens and their metadata.
• Perform routine DNA isolation, purification, and quality control prior to sequencing.
• Perform library preparation for standard Illumina whole-genome sequencing.
• Preparation of root tips for chromosome squashes.
• Prepares buffers, maintains equipment, and manages purchasing for wet lab operations.
• Provides day-to-day oversight on compliance with environmental health and safety regulations and provide technical guidance to trainees in the lab.
• Assist with permits for the collection of plants and their transit within the US and internationally.

Other Work/Responsibilities:
There will be an occasional need for the care of plants housed at the NCSU phytotron and local field work. There will be opportunities for training in computational biology and gaining expertise in data analysis beyond the wet lab. This includes the testing of software and assistance in squashing bugs, developing documentation, and writing tutorials. Independent research projects may also be assigned that align with the candidate's goals and interests.

Minimum Experience/Education:
Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience performing laboratory research techniques, including DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis
• Ability to follow and contribute to the development of protocols and standard operating procedures
• Experience with data collection, recordkeeping, and basic data analysis
• Familiarity with laboratory safety practices and compliance requirements
• Ability to operate, maintain, or troubleshoot laboratory equipment
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a research team
• Basic computer skills (e.g., data entry, spreadsheets, laboratory information systems)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience performing laboratory research techniques, including DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis
• Experience with data collection, recordkeeping, and basic data analysis
• Familiarity with laboratory safety practices and compliance requirements
• Experience in plant DNA isolation from dried and fresh tissue. Illumina library preparation.
• Prior experience in karyotyping and flow cytometry.

Required license or certification:
N/A

Position Number: 00111994