Research Technician III

Duke Careers•Durham, NC

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The David Lab at Duke University is recruiting a technician to join a team of scientists developing and using new DNA sequencing tools to study diet and gut microbiome. The lab is particularly interested in creating new ways to measure and analyze food intake, which is essential for monitoring and improving human health. They are developing new DNA sequencing-based techniques that track the dietary plant and animal species people consume. These techniques generate objective data on intakes of over 450 plant and animal species, robust to differences in memory/recall, and standardized across languages and cultures using the universal language of DNA. The lab collaborates with researchers and communities across North Carolina and the world. Their studies will also create new models of disease risk and examine geographic, cultural, behavioral, and socioeconomic determinants of diet. The projects are funded by awards from Schmidt Sciences, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the National Institutes of Health, the Gerber Foundation, and the Burroughs Welcome Fund. This position is suited for individuals who thrive in an in-person work environment, requiring high precision and efficiency in laboratory tasks, and a mindset geared towards continuous learning and improvement. The RTIII will run day-to-day molecular workflows that move samples from receipt to clean, analyzable sequencing libraries. The RTIII will also help standardize procedures, maintain inventory and equipment, and train student assistants to ensure reliable throughput across multiple projects. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both hands-on molecular laboratory work and the operational discipline required to keep multi-project sample and sequencing workflows running smoothly.

Requirements

Completion of a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other science related scientific field programs.
Two years of research experience. A related master's degree may offset required years of experience on a 1:1 basis, e.g., a two-year master's degree in lieu of two years of experience.
OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Technical Proficiency: Experience in genomics or related fields, with a background in DNA extraction, PCR, and/or sequencing.
Growth Mindset: A strong willingness to learn, adapt, and develop new skills. Curiosity and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Dedication and Efficiency: Thriving on experimental work, and a passion for repeatedly conducting detail-oriented experiments with a focus on precision and efficiency. Self-motivated and dedicated to continuous improvement.
Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively within a team and contribute to a collaborative research environment.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience with robotic systems is a plus.
Experience with DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing-library preparation, and/or laboratory automation is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Receive and process wastewater samples, mail-in citizen-science kits, and samples from collaborator laboratories; verify metadata, barcodes, temperature, and control logs.
Accession, aliquot, and store samples with appropriate protocols and maintain accurate lab records.
Perform DNA extractions from concentrates, swabs, and solids, quantify nucleic acids, and prepare amplicon libraries (e.g., trnL, 12SV5) and other targeted assays with accuracy and consistency.
Set up and run PCR and related workflows using standard instruments (thermocyclers, fluorometers, plate readers), controls, and standards.
Prepare sequencing libraries and support sequencing workflows, including coordination with internal or external sequencing resources as needed.
Troubleshoot assays, identify sources of technical variation, make minor modifications to established protocols as needed, and document deviations and corrective actions.
Summarize quality-control metrics and experimental results for project tracking, reporting, and downstream analysis.
Prepare buffers, reagents, and other lab materials; track lot numbers and manage inventory; place orders and receive supplies.
Calibrate and maintain common equipment; coordinate preventative maintenance and service calls.
Operate and maintain laboratory robotics and automated liquid handling systems.
Uphold biosafety, chemical hygiene, and waste-disposal procedures.
Ensure temperature monitoring in freezers and fridges.
Maintain and improve standard operating procedures and protocols.
Conduct routine, detail-intensive experiments with enthusiasm, constantly seeking ways to improve speed and efficiency without compromising quality.
Assist in collecting, processing, and managing data from various genomic experiments.
Assemble and conduct quality assurance of participant stool collection kits.
Coordinate with water reclamation facility personnel, assemble and conduct quality assurance of wastewater collection kits.
Manage shipments and returns of samples and ensure timely processing.
Maintain accurate sample and laboratory records, including metadata, QC results, freezer inventories, and chain-of-custody documentation.
Organize raw experimental data and laboratory outputs for handoff to senior lab staff and downstream computational analysis.
Coordinate with field sampling teams on field sampling needs, sample readiness, and turnaround.
Train and help oversee student assistants and other junior personnel on core laboratory workflows, safety procedures, documentation standards, quality expectations, and timelines.
Work collaboratively within the lab team and contribute to a positive and productive research environment.