O'Connor Lab Research Specialist

Universities of Wisconsin • Madison, WI

1d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Research Specialist to join our expanding environmental surveillance team. The position involves processing air samples and clinical nasal swab samples collected at various locations within the local community as well as other domestic and international sites that are expanding their air sample collection. We have many ongoing projects, but our overarching goal is to use air sampling to monitor for common and emerging respiratory illnesses. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the principal investigators and senior lab scientists, as well as with a team of undergraduate researchers and research specialists. Nucleic acids from the collected samples are isolated then are assayed to determine which respiratory pathogens are present using multiplex PCR panels and metagenomics assays. In some weeks, the candidate will also be responsible to drive to pick up air samples in a University fleet vehicle so a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is required. In the laboratory, you will process air samples and nasal swab samples for nucleic acid extraction and perform multiplex PCR assays. You will also perform routine laboratory maintenance and quality control procedures to ensure data integrity and equipment functionality. These technical responsibilities require attention to detail and adherence to established protocols for sample handling and processing. Other duties will include helping to design and execute quality control experiments and optimizing novel PCR assays to expand our ability to detect a greater number of pathogens. Other research support duties will involve assisting in sample management and inventory, data analysis and preparation for publication, contributing to ongoing research projects as needed, and maintaining detailed records and documentation. This aspect of the role provides exposure to the full research pipeline from sample collection through scientific publication. Applicants that have worked in a research laboratory setting with strong molecular biology skills and wet lab bench experience are encouraged to apply. Specifically, we are seeking applicants who have experience performing RNA and DNA isolation (both automated and manual methods), optimization/troubleshooting for PCR/RT-PCR/digital PCR assays, high throughput sample processing, and/or using microfluidics sample processing platforms. In addition, since management of large numbers of samples and interpretation of sequencing data are complex, the successful applicant needs to have strong organizational and data analysis/computer skills. This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location. Must provide a valid driver's license. Employees may use their own transportation or receive approval for University Car Fleet usage. Employment is conditional pending the results of a Pre-hire Driver Authorization Check. See https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/#become-authorized-driver (click on “Become an authorized driver;” then click on “Required criteria”).

Requirements

• Experience in designing and conducting experiments.
• Experience in data collection and analysis.
• Experience with written and verbal scientific communication.
• Must provide a valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

• Applicants that have worked in a research laboratory setting with strong molecular biology skills and wet lab bench experience are encouraged to apply. Specifically, we are seeking applicants who have experience performing RNA and DNA isolation (both automated and manual methods), optimization/troubleshooting for PCR/RT-PCR/digital PCR assays, high throughput sample processing, and/or using microfluidics sample processing platforms. In addition, since management of large numbers of samples and interpretation of sequencing data are complex, the successful applicant needs to have strong organizational and data analysis/computer skills.
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred; focus in public health, immunology, microbiology, virology, or a related field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• Performs literature reviews and writes reports
• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area.
• Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s).
• Collects data and monitors test results
• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials

Benefits

• Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits.

What This Job Offers

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