Assistant Research Scientist

Health Research, Inc. • Albany, NY

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Health Research, Inc. is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist to work within the Advanced Genomic Technologies Cluster (AGTC) core, located within the Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health. The incumbent will work on next generation sequencing (NGS) operations within the core, performing routine laboratory workflows including nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, quality control, sequencing instrument operation, and basic troubleshooting. The incumbent will assist in metagenomics sequencing for clinical and environmental samples, monitors sequencing runs, maintain equipment, and will assist to ensure reliable and high-quality sequencing data while working under general supervision. This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center’s mission in the New York State Department of Health’s efforts to protect and promote the health of New York’s citizens. Come be a part of Science in the Pursuit of Health®!

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology and one year of research experience; OR a master’s degree in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology.
• Degrees must be from an accredited institution.
• Must meet all Federal requirements for staff who perform clinical testing, including the educational requirements.
• Valid and unrestricted authorization to work in the U.S. is required.
• Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location specified in the job posting and must also be located in or willing to relocate to one of the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts, prior to hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in and/or academic knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology.
• Hands-on experience in DNA and RNA extraction and/or library preparation and/or PCR and/or sequencing workflows, and/or quality assessment of biological samples.
• Experience analyzing, interpreting, and summarizing complex datasets to support research goals and downstream applications.
• Experience with computational data analysis and instrument control software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with good organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory workflows including nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, quality control, sequencing instrument operation, and basic troubleshooting.
• Assist in metagenomics sequencing for clinical and environmental samples.
• Monitor sequencing runs.
• Maintain equipment.
• Assist to ensure reliable and high-quality sequencing data.

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Flexible benefit accounts - Medical, dependent care, adoption assistance, parking and transit
• Generous paid time off - Paid federal and state holidays, paid sick, vacation and personal leave
• Tuition support
• Retirement Benefits - HRI is a participating employer in the New York State and Local Retirement System and offers optional enrollment in the New York State Deferred Compensation Plan.
• Postretirement Health Benefits Plan for qualified retirees to use towards health insurance premiums and eligible medical expenses
• Employee Assistance Program - Provides educational and wellness programs, training, and 24/7 confidential services to assist employees, both personally and professionally

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level