Laboratory Technician

Mississippi State University; Starkville (MS); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University seeks a Laboratory Technician for the Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition & Health Promotion. The role involves employing techniques in molecular virology to collect samples, extract nucleic acids, and maintain laboratory protocols. The technician will contribute to research efforts while supporting the academic mission of the department.

Qualifications

• Research experience in animal pathogens preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• One year of relevant experience needed.

Responsibilities

• Collect animal/environmental samples.
• Extract nucleic acids and isolate viruses.
• Maintain safety protocols in the research lab.

Skills

Microbiology techniques

DNA extraction

qPCR analysis

Bioinformatics

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

B.S. degree in biochemistry, biology or microbiology

Job description

Apply now Job no: 509184
Position type: Full-Time 12-Month
Department: 012000 - Biochemistry Nutrition Health Promo
Location: Main Campus - Starkville, MS
Categories: Support Staff
Position Open Date: May 20 2025

Position Function:

The Laboratory Technician, under general supervision, will employ a broad knowledge of principles, practices and procedures in the molecular virology field to collect and process field samples, coordinate and conduct research.
The technician will collect animal biological samples (swabs), optimize the extraction of nucleic acids, develop a quantitative PCR (qPCR)approach to detect viral agents in biological materials. The technician will also help the supervisor maintain the research laboratory including the biosafety protocols, ordering of supplies and conducting other research activities.

The newly created Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition & Health Promotion has academic, research and extension education missions within the traditions of land-grant universities. The Department has roughly 35 faculty in biochemistry, nutrition/dietetics, food science, and health promotion disciplines. The Department offers B.S., and Ph.D. degrees and currently advises approximately 400 undergraduate and 30 graduate students.

Area of Specialization:

Molecular techniques applied to virology research

Anticipated Appointment Date:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Collect animal/environmental samples.
2. Extract nucleic acids.
3. Isolate viruses.
4. Detect pathogens using pathogen-specific qPCR protocols.
5. Maintain the research laboratories.
6. Practice good safety control protocols.
7. Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or GED.
Experience: One year similar to duties described above.
Licensure: Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

Research experiences in animal pathogens.
B.S. degree in biochemistry, biology or microbiology.
Demonstrated competence in this field.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Knowledge of microbiology techniques, such as sterile operation, medium preparation, microbial isolation
2. Knowledge with general procedures of DNA extraction, qPCR analysis and microbial identification
3. Knowledge of bioinformatics, such as DNA sequence analysis software and genomewide analysis
4. Excellent computer skills such as spreadsheets and word processing
5. Excellent interpersonal communications, organizational and problem-solving skills
6. Ability to prioritize competing demands and meet deadlines.
7. Ability to work as a team member.
8. Ability to anticipate barriers to project completion, plan and manage contingencies.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

1. Require working in a Biosafety level-2 research laboratory.
2. Occasionally to drive to farm or research facilities and expose to outdoor conditions.
3. Frequent, external imposed deadlines.

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, [phone].

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and wouldlike to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi StateUniversity, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: [phone] [e-mail] .

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human ResourcesManagement at [phone] [e-mail] . Upon request, sections of thisjob listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.

Advertised: May 20 2025 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: