Genomics Research Scientist III: High-Throughput Sequencing

University of Washington; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 80,244 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Washington, within the Department of Genome Sciences NWGC, seeks a Research Scientist III in Genomics to advance high-throughput sequencing projects. The role focuses on DNA variation analysis in human populations, with emphasis on library construction, sequencing, and data quality control in a collaborative lab setting.

You will work with Illumina, PacBio, and Oxford Nanopore technologies, develop new methods, maintain records, and contribute to long-term scientific goals

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Genetics/Biochemistry, Chemical or Biomedical Engineering, or related Life Sciences field.
• Four or more years of laboratory experience with molecular biology, genetics, and/or chemistry and strong wet-bench skills.
• Ability to perform cell culture of established lines and manipulate nucleic acids, tissues, nuclei, and chromatin.
• Experience with –omics library construction and sequencing analyses with short- and long-read technologies.

Responsibilities

• Carry out lab protocols for DNA and RNA library construction and sequencing.
• Develop new methods for DNA, RNA, and methylation analysis.
• Evaluate new products, kits, and instruments for applicability and benefit.
• Maintain and harvest cell lines and document precise protocols and records.
• Operate robotics stations for sample preparation and manage quality-control processes.
• Log workflow data in LIMS and assist with data quality assessments.
• Attend university meetings and contribute to long-term scientific goals.

Skills

Wet-lab skills

DNA/RNA library prep

Sequencing analysis

Data quality control

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related Life Sciences

Tools

Illumina sequencing

PacBio

Oxford Nanopore

LIMS

Job description

Job Description

The Department of Genome Sciences’ Northwest Genomics Center (NWGC) (Wei Lab) has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist 3, Genomics, to join the team.

About This Opportunity

Reporting to the NWGC Director of Operations, the Research Scientist 3 will conduct laboratory research focusing on the identification of DNA variation in human populations in a high-throughput genomics laboratory in the Department of Genome Sciences.

Job Description

The Department of Genome Sciences’ Northwest Genomics Center (NWGC) (Wei Lab) has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist 3, Genomics, to join the team.

About This Opportunity

Reporting to the NWGC Director of Operations, the Research Scientist 3 will conduct laboratory research focusing on the identification of DNA variation in human populations in a high-throughput genomics laboratory in the Department of Genome Sciences.

Position Complexities

This position will require expertise in molecular biology and genomics protocols and the ability to perform research and take responsibility for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness for large projects.

The Research Scientist will work within the NWGC supporting production-scale genomics, while also supporting advanced research projects as part of the Wei lab. The Research Scientist 3 will work under supervision of the PI and Lead Research Scientist to meet project deadlines and complete assigned tasks by implementing well-established protocols and evaluating and developing new protocols. Weekly meetings are held to discuss project status.

Dimensions and Impact to the University

This position will work in a prominent laboratory whose work impacts other researchers worldwide. High functionality will be reflected in even greater funding opportunities and enhancement of the reputation of the University as a biomedical research powerhouse.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out laboratory protocols for next-generation DNA and RNA library construction and sequencing. – 60%
• Perform standard and lab-developed molecular biology protocols.
• Develop new methods for DNA, RNA, and methylation analysis.
• Evaluate new products, kits, and instruments to assess their applicability and potential benefit to the Wei Lab and NWGC.
• Maintain and harvest cell lines for a variety of molecular biology applications.
• Develop and maintain precise laboratory protocols and records.
• Work within a laboratory team environment to process and track DNA and RNA samples. – 35%
• Program and operate robotics stations for sample preparation.
• Implement quality-assurance protocols.
• Works with laboratory information systems (LIMS) to log workflow data.
• Perform assessments of data quality. Assist with trouble-shooting and daily quality control of data.
• Aid in the development of new experimental methods and assist laboratory co-workers and/or the PI in meeting long-term scientific goals.
• Attend Genome Sciences and University meetings, retreats, status updates, orientations and planning days when necessary. Other duties as assigned – 5%
  

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Genetics/Biochemistry, Chemical or Biomedical Engineering, or other related Life Sciences field. Four or more years of laboratory experience to include: Working knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, and/or chemistry and excellent technical wet bench skills
  
  

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to perform cell culture of established lines and manipulate nucleic acid, tissues, nuclei and chromatin
• Demonstrated experience in -omics library construction
• Experience in performing a broad range of short-read and long-read sequencing analyses
• Ability to provide both written and oral summary of technical implementation, evaluation and recommendation of early-stage technologies.
• Experience working with sequencing technologies, such as Illumina, PacBio and Oxford Nanopore
• Experience growing human cell lines
  
  

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in a high-throughput genomics laboratory specializing in next-generation sequencing
• Experience with liquid handling systems, specifically, Janus, Zephyr, and Sciclone systems, including program development
• Experience working in a CLIA-certified environment
• Excellent recording keeping and ability to refine and develop protocols
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Must be highly organized with solid attention to detail
• Open to receiving direction and to asking for assistance when needed
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  
  

Working Conditions

BSL2 lab

Application Requirement

A cover letter is required.

Visa Sponsorship

This recruitment is open to applicants who will require employer sponsorship for an H-1B or E-3 visa.

About The Team

The Northwest Genomics Center (NWGC) at the University of Washington is one of the leading genome centers in the United States. The NWGC, housed in the Department of Genome Sciences, is the largest self-sustaining genome center in the Pacific Northwest and one of the most successful genome centers in the country. It has partnered to deliver exome and/or whole genome sequence (WGS) data for many highly successful large-scale human genetic projects for both rare conditions and common diseases. These projects include the Centers for Mendelian Genomics (CMG), the NHLBI Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine Program (TOPMed) and, most recently, the All of Us Research Program.

The Northwest Genomics Center: https://nwgc.gs.washington.edu/wordpress/

The Wei lab: https://www.weilaboratory.com/

About Genome Sciences

The Department of Genome Sciences (GS) is part of the University of Washington School of Medicine (UW SoM) and is comprised of 34 labs addressing leading edge questions in biology and medicine by developing and applying genetic, genomic, and computational approaches taking advantage of genomic information now available for a host of species. GS is making major contributions in the application of genome science to understand the fundamentals of biology and to improve human health and well-being.

Genome Sciences is a collaborative department supported by very different academic disciplines. We work with a multitude of Program Investigators (PIs) in departments both on the UW campus as well as worldwide. The department has gone through significant expansion since its beginning in 2001 with annual grant awards of $39M in FY25. The department has 63 training, teaching, and research faculty.

Compensation, Benefits And Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$80,244.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum

$105,000.00 annual

Benefits

Other Compensation:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent)

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit

UAW Research

About The UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail].

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.