Research Scientist 1, UW Virology Lab (One Year Appointment)

University of Washington•Seattle, WA

About The Position

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Research Scientist 1 with the UW Virology Team at Renton. As a Research Scientist 1, you will perform technical procedures in a virology laboratory, including but not limited to, droplet digital PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, next-generation sequencing and tissue, plasma, and FFPE DNA and RNA extractions on biological samples. You will handle tissue specimens for cryo-storage and prepare tissue sections for Immunohistochemistry analysis. You will report results, organize documents and keep records. Major duties and responsibilities include performing sample prep and digital and quantitative PCR assays for the viruses outlined above as well as assisting with troubleshooting with existing assays and methodological development of new assays to study digital PCR and other nucleic acid amplification technology in molecular virology diagnostics. Work schedule: 100% Mon-Fri Day shift One year appointment What you’ll contribute: Analytical/Technical Duties Under general supervision, perform experiments according to established standard operation procedures, documented research protocols and study plans. Under general supervision, perform validation of the techniques– notify supervisor or senior lab members if results are not agreeable with experimental goals. Assist in troubleshooting problems that arise in research protocols and making necessary modifications. Assist supervisor and/or senior lab members in developing techniques including multiplex PCR, next-generation sequencing library preparation, and novel digital PCR tests. Analytical (Data) Duties Compile data and results to be used in publications and presentations; participate in presentations to peers and supervisor both at formal lab meetings and informal meetings with colleagues. Perform data analysis tasks related to PCR and sequencing assays according to standard operating procedures and protocols, report results to supervisor. Operational Duties Prepare and QC reagents and reaction mixes. Operate and maintain necessary instruments utilized in scientific studies of laboratory experiments, including but not limited PCR thermocyclers, qPCR instruments, RNA/DNA fragment bioanalyzer, gel electrophoresis apparati, NGS sequencing instruments, droplet generator, droplet reader and their associated computers. Maintain detailed lab records. Update specimen inventory. Inventory reagents and supplies. General lab cleaning and maintenance. Conduct literature reviews and background searches to assist in determining research methods. Operate ancillary equipment such as computers, printers, etc. Perform related duties as required. Attend and participate in lab meetings.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry or related field.
Experience in a Molecular Biology lab.
Familiar with procedures in biological specimen handing, storage, and processing.
One (1) year of experience in a related area.

Nice To Haves

Molecular biology background.
Experience with PCR, sequencing, computer programming ability to analyze sequencing data.
Good laboratory practice (GLP) skills.
Experience with Excel and Word for data entry and data analyses.

Responsibilities

Perform technical procedures in a virology laboratory, including but not limited to, droplet digital PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, next-generation sequencing and tissue, plasma, and FFPE DNA and RNA extractions on biological samples.
Handle tissue specimens for cryo-storage and prepare tissue sections for Immunohistochemistry analysis.
Report results, organize documents and keep records.
Perform sample prep and digital and quantitative PCR assays for the viruses outlined above
Assist with troubleshooting with existing assays and methodological development of new assays to study digital PCR and other nucleic acid amplification technology in molecular virology diagnostics.
Perform experiments according to established standard operation procedures, documented research protocols and study plans.
Perform validation of the techniques– notify supervisor or senior lab members if results are not agreeable with experimental goals.
Assist in troubleshooting problems that arise in research protocols and making necessary modifications.
Assist supervisor and/or senior lab members in developing techniques including multiplex PCR, next-generation sequencing library preparation, and novel digital PCR tests.
Compile data and results to be used in publications and presentations; participate in presentations to peers and supervisor both at formal lab meetings and informal meetings with colleagues.
Perform data analysis tasks related to PCR and sequencing assays according to standard operating procedures and protocols, report results to supervisor.
Prepare and QC reagents and reaction mixes.
Operate and maintain necessary instruments utilized in scientific studies of laboratory experiments, including but not limited PCR thermocyclers, qPCR instruments, RNA/DNA fragment bioanalyzer, gel electrophoresis apparati, NGS sequencing instruments, droplet generator, droplet reader and their associated computers.
Maintain detailed lab records.
Update specimen inventory.
Inventory reagents and supplies.
General lab cleaning and maintenance.
Conduct literature reviews and background searches to assist in determining research methods.
Operate ancillary equipment such as computers, printers, etc.
Perform related duties as required.
Attend and participate in lab meetings.

Benefits

Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
And much more!

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