Academic Hourly - Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Urbana, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a part-time diagnostic research lab technician in the Wildlife Epidemiology Lab (WEL), a research lab. Primary responsibilities will be performance of molecular-based assays for detection of diseases in animals. This will include, but not limited to, PCR and quantitative PCR assay set-up, DNA and RNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, sample preparation for DNA sequencing, plasmid development, spectrophotometry, and assay calibration.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree is Molecular Biology or a related field.
Familiarity with techniques in molecular diagnostics.

Nice To Haves

At least 2 years of experience in a laboratory diagnostics
Spreadsheet software (Excel) and document software (Word) required
Filemaker, VADDS, Familiarity with techniques in molecular biology or epidemiology preferred

Responsibilities

Perform DNA/RNA extractions of submissions to VDL in Wildlife Epidemiology Lab
Perform conventional and quantitative PCRs following established SOPs
Analyze DNA/RNA extracts for quality and quantity using spectrophotometry
Develop and validate new techniques or modify existing techniques for use in diagnostic tests in VDL
Develop PCR-based plasmid positive controls following established protocols and develop skills for cell culture that support disease diagnosis in concurrent samples.
Maintain clean and tidy workspace in WEL and assists in the washing, preparation, and sterilization of necessary glassware
Maintain log of diagnostic samples received and reporting of test results for WEL.
Maintain and order sufficient inventory of necessary supplies to perform diagnostic assays
Maintain and order sufficient inventory of necessary supplies to perform diagnostic assays
Assist in the implementation of QA/QC requirements
Performs other duties as assigned