Research Specialist
About The Position
The Research Specialist supports the UW-Madison DNA Sequencing Facility by performing DNA extraction, preparing DNA sequencing libraries, supporting clients, and evaluating new technologies. The position works in a fast-paced production environment providing data to the UW-Madison research community. The facility uses Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms, requiring knowledge of molecular biology and experience working with DNA. The role also includes customer service responsibilities. The position conducts research experiments under established protocols, collects data and monitors test results, participates in developing and implementing research methods and materials, and reviews and interprets data for reporting or presentations. It also supports daily unit operations, maintains research equipment and work areas, tracks inventory, and performs literature reviews and report writing.
Requirements
- Minimum of a B.S. and one year of laboratory experience; two years of laboratory experience is preferred. Experience may have been accumulated during academic study.
- Knowledge of and experience with general research laboratory practices and molecular biology techniques, such as PCR/qPCR, DNA extraction, and gel electrophoresis, or similar skills.
- Experience with DNA extraction on multiple sample types.
- Excellent record documentation and organization skills, with attention to detail.
- Knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety and operations protocols.
- Ability to work independently and consistently follow laboratory protocols.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Basic computer skills.
- Bachelor of Science in Cell or Molecular Biology or a related field.
Nice To Haves
- Two years of laboratory experience.
- Experience generating Oxford Nanopore sequencing libraries and loading or operating GridION/PromethION.
- Experience generating Illumina sequencing libraries and loading or operating Illumina NovaSeq X and MiSeq i100.
- Experience operating liquid handling equipment (Biomek FX/NXp, epMotion 5075) and developing protocols for it.
- Experience with a LIMS.
Responsibilities
- Perform DNA extraction and prepare DNA sequencing libraries.
- Support clients and provide customer service.
- Evaluate new technologies.
- Perform literature reviews and write reports.
- Provide operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers.
- Participate in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials.
- Review, analyze, and interpret data and/or document results for presentations and reporting to internal and external audiences.
- Operate, clean, and maintain research equipment and keep the research area organized.
- Track inventory levels and place replenishment orders.
- Conduct research experiments according to established protocols, collect data, and monitor test results.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
