Research Scientist - Department of Biology

West Virginia University • West Virginia, WV

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Biology in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University is seeking a Research Scientist to operate and manage all molecular laboratory aspects of their statewide wastewater testing program. This role involves routine sample testing, troubleshooting, managing laboratory supplies, and ensuring uninterrupted laboratory operations. The Research Scientist will report directly to the Program Director, collaborate on reports and manuscripts for grant deliverables, and develop new workflows for onboarding new wastewater targets. Additionally, they will lead research efforts focused on novel questions related to wastewater testing.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in biology, molecular biology, or related field.
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience involving high-throughput digital PCR, QX and/or Qiacuity systems.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in genome sequencing, ONT and/or Illumina platforms (library preparation through data interpretation).
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience working within a biosafety cabinet or PCR workstation environment.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience working with biosafety level 2 pathogens.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in bioinformatics on HPC (cluster) environments.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in data analysis & visualization using R.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in experimental design and troubleshooting.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced biology bench techniques, including quantitative PCR and digital PCR; high-throughput genome sequencing; sample quality control protocols (e.g., Agilent TapeStation; Qubit).
• Demonstrated time management skills, including ability to meet regular deadlines.
• Data analysis using R; data processing and analysis using HPC platforms (especially conda or related systems).
• Effective communication of laboratory results across a spectrum of audiences, including general public, public health officials, and subject matter experts.
• Interpersonal skills, particularly mentoring students and oversight of peer groups.

Responsibilities

• Operate and manage all molecular laboratory aspects of our statewide wastewater testing program.
• Perform regular routine sample testing.
• Troubleshoot laboratory processes and equipment.
• Manage laboratory supplies.
• Ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Collaborate on reports, manuscripts, and other deliverables as required by our wastewater testing grant.
• Develop new workflows in response to leadership requests to onboard new wastewater targets.
• Lead research efforts involving novel questions around the use of wastewater testing.
• Laboratory sample analysis through digital and droplet digital PCR (and associated protocols).
• Operation of testing laboratory, including ordering supplies, troubleshooting protocols, recommending actions to the Director, oversight of student interns and other group members.
• Development of new workflows for program targets (pathogens, biomarkers) as identified by program leadership.
• Leadership of small groups built around relevant research topics, including the prototyping of novel methodologies for wastewater testing and data analysis.
• Preparation of reports and manuscripts as required by our grant(s).

Benefits

• 37.5-hour work week
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year or more based on years of service (employee leave)
• 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6%25 employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks.
• Wellness programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree