Research Scientist/Engineer 2

University of Washington Medical Center • Seattle, WA

6d • $68,736 - $71,412

About The Position

The Department of Biology is hiring a Research Scientist 2 to conduct DNA-based laboratory work, data analysis, and project documentation in the Wasser Lab. The role reports to Dr. Samuel Wasser. The lab expects to increase its emphasis on Next Generation Sequencing over time.

The position includes DNA extraction from low-template samples and other biological materials, PCR and sequencing library preparation, DNA quantification, protocol troubleshooting, sample inventory and storage, and DNA sequence and sequencing-data analysis. The Research Scientist 2 also supports quality control and forensic chain-of-custody documentation, trains and supervises undergraduate students, maintains lab operations and supplies, and contributes to manuscript preparation, with potential for authorship or co-authorship.

This is a regular, 100% FTE position on the first shift. A valid driver's license and government-issued passport are required for international and domestic travel. The annual pay range is $68,736 to $71,412. The role is represented by UAW Research. University of Washington benefits information is available at the link provided in the posting.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field.
• Two years of experience with DNA-based benchwork, such as DNA extraction, PCR, bead-cleans, or DNA quantification, or relevant experience.
• Experience working with large data sets and high-throughput DNA analyses.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and independently perform key functions of the role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, emphasizing accurate data reporting and analysis.
• Ability to learn new processes and develop proficiency in new areas of DNA analysis as required by lab activities tied to the Center’s core programs and deliverables.
• Valid driver's license and government-issued passport for international and domestic travel.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with MiSeq amplicon sequencing, R/Python/Bash programming, and kinship analysis is highly desired.
• Experience with chain of custody, low-template samples, clean technique, and forensic procedures is strongly preferred.
• Experience with data management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct DNA extraction of low-template DNA, including fecal, hair, pangolin scale, and ivory samples, as well as tissue and blood, using high-throughput 96-well plate formats.
• Conduct PCR for fragment analysis and prepare amplicon sequencing libraries using high-throughput 384-well plate formats.
• Quantify DNA using fluorometers such as Qubit and TapeStation.
• Troubleshoot and optimize laboratory protocols.
• Maintain and organize sample inventories.
• Maintain clear and concise laboratory records, with a focus on chain of custody for forensic samples.
• Adhere to quality control, record-keeping, organization, and project documentation practices.
• Consolidate and prepare samples and resulting products for long-term storage.
• Conduct mtDNA sequence assembly using Sequencher, STR allele calling using GeneMarker, and analysis of Illumina sequencing data using tools such as OBITools and QIME2.
• Perform data management and data visualization.
• Train and supervise undergraduate students.
• Maintain clear and concise lab notes, laboratory cleanliness, and general lab operations.
• Purchase supplies and monitor inventory.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, with potential for authorship and co-authorship.

Benefits

• The posting refers applicants to the University of Washington staff benefits information page and describes benefits as outstanding, but does not list specific benefit offerings.

What This Job Offers

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