Research Facility Specialist

University of Hawaii System Office

11d•$23 - $29

About The Position

CLOSING DATE: January 12, 2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended. Regular, Part-Time (50% FTE), RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Biosciences Research Center, located on the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa campus in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. HOURLY RANGE: $23.35 - $28.85/Hr. DUTIES: Contributes to projects for a core multi-user research facility in microbial genomics. Performs molecular techniques including nucleic acid purification, conventional and quantitative PCR, Illumina and other high throughput sequencing library preparation, and Sanger sequencing. Writes clear protocols following standardized format. Manages inventories of cryo-archived field samples and microbial isolates, including organization of samples in freezers, maintenance of accurate, up-to-date sample databases, and monitoring freezer condition. Develops and optimizes new molecular and diagnostic protocols. Trains student assistants and researchers, faculty and research staff in the correct and specialized procedures for molecular biology, the use of instruments in the facility, and data interpretation. Conducts work related to University health and safety standards, biosafety protocols, chemical inventory and hazardous waste disposal.

Requirements

EDUCATION: Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in microbiology, molecular biology, or related field.
EXPERIENCE: One to two (1-2) years of work experience in a molecular or microbiology laboratory.
KNOWLEDGE: Advanced knowledge of basic biology, microbiology, microbial ecology, high throughput sequencing technology and data analysis.
Working knowledge of cell biology and molecular genetics.
Working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, experimental design, and statistical analysis.
Basic knowledge of data management and organization.
ABILITIES & SKILLS: Advanced skills in molecular techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR, library preps), microbial culturing and cryo-archiving, troubleshooting, and application of bioinformatic tools to analyze metagenomic data sets.
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
Strong problem-solving skills.
Ability to supervise employees/students/volunteers with a wide range of experience.
Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills, and a history of effective collaboration.
Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to complete the UH Title IX training within twelve (12) months from date of hire.
Must be able to complete the UH Laboratory Safety training within one (1) month from date of hire.
Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee's initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months.
POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT: As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).

Nice To Haves

Ability to independently write scientific papers and provide critical feedback on grant applications.
Strong publication record.

Responsibilities

Contributes to projects for a core multi-user research facility in microbial genomics.
Performs molecular techniques including nucleic acid purification, conventional and quantitative PCR, Illumina and other high throughput sequencing library preparation, and Sanger sequencing.
Writes clear protocols following standardized format.
Manages inventories of cryo-archived field samples and microbial isolates, including organization of samples in freezers, maintenance of accurate, up-to-date sample databases, and monitoring freezer condition.
Develops and optimizes new molecular and diagnostic protocols.
Trains student assistants and researchers, faculty and research staff in the correct and specialized procedures for molecular biology, the use of instruments in the facility, and data interpretation.
Conducts work related to University health and safety standards, biosafety protocols, chemical inventory and hazardous waste disposal.