Research Technician
About The Position
The Scotch Lab at Arizona State University is seeking a motivated Research Technician to support research in genomic epidemiology and surveillance of RNA viruses, with a focus on influenza viruses. The technician will contribute to laboratory workflows that include sample handling, molecular biology techniques, and preparation of sequencing libraries, as well as routine lab operations and documentation. This position requires strong attention to detail, adherence to biosafety and quality practices, and the ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
Requirements
- High School Diploma and two-years (2) experience appropriate to the area of assignment/field; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, public health, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Prior hands-on experience with one or more of the following: RNA extraction, RT-PCR/qPCR, amplicon PCR, library preparation, sequencing (Nanopore/Illumina), or basic bioinformatics file handling.
- Experience working with infectious disease samples and familiarity with BSL-2 practices (or willingness to obtain training).
- Strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to maintain detailed documentation and follow SOPs.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and work independently with appropriate supervision.
- Comfortable using standard lab software/tools (GelDoc, Oxford Nanopore, NanoDrop, Excel/Google Sheets, Microsoft Word).
- Excellent communication skills and a team-oriented, dependable work style.
- experience with influenza and/or other respiratory viruses
- experience with environmental or clinical sample processing
- experience with QA/QC procedures.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine molecular biology and microbiology laboratory procedures, including nucleic acid extraction, RT-PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and sample QC.
- Assist with preparation of sequencing libraries (e.g., amplicon-based workflows) and support sequencing runs (e.g., Oxford Nanopore and/or Illumina), as applicable.
- Maintain accurate and complete records in lab notebooks and/or electronic systems; organize sample tracking and metadata.
- Prepare reagents, buffers, and media; label, aliquot, and store samples and reagents appropriately.
- Follow biosafety, chemical hygiene, and waste disposal procedures; complete required safety trainings and comply with institutional and regulatory requirements.
- Support day-to-day lab operations, including inventory management, ordering supplies, equipment maintenance logs, and general housekeeping/sterile technique.
- Assist with data organization and transfer of files from laboratory instruments (basic computing skills; scripting not required but welcomed).
- Participate in lab meetings, contribute to troubleshooting, and communicate progress and issues promptly with supervisors and team members.
- Ability to efficiently perform other duties as assigned
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
