Molecular Biology Researcher: eDNA & Metabarcoding

Socket.dev; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

401K

Job summary

Cherokee Federal seeks a Molecular Biology Researcher to support our federal client in Gainesville, FL. You will lead molecular and genetic analyses on invasive and imperiled species, support eDNA/metabarcoding projects, conduct field sampling, and publish results that inform natural resource management.

Full-time; travel and fieldwork required. Lead lab research on eDNA, metabarcoding, population genetics, disease research, and/or genetic biocontrol; extract, purify, and quantify DNA/RNA;

Qualifications

• PhD with 5+ years of molecular biology experience.
• Experience with eDNA or metabarcoding preferred.
• Proficiency in PCR/qPCR/ddPCR and DNA/RNA extraction.
• Strong data management and QA skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; strong communication and manuscript experience preferred.
• Extensive R coding experience.
• Willingness and physical ability to perform extended fieldwork in harsh conditions.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Responsibilities

• Lead lab research on environmental DNA (eDNA), metabarcoding, population genetics, disease research, and/or genetic biocontrol (cell culture).
• Extract, purify, and quantify DNA/RNA; conduct PCR, quantitative PCR (qPCR), droplet digital PCR (ddPCR); gel electrophoresis; primer design; troubleshoot protocols; phenol-chloroform isolations.
• Operate and maintain lab equipment: pipettors, thermocyclers, spectrophotometers, DNA analyzers, centrifuges, power supplies; manage inventory; prepare solutions and reagents.
• Prepare, collect, verify samples; maintain detailed records; tabulate, statistically analyze, and summarize data; ensure QA for lab and microscope analyses.
• Train and assist scientists, students, and volunteers; coordinate lab activities; support outreach materials and present at scientific meetings; contribute to proposals and manuscripts.
• Plan and conduct multi-day fieldwork; acquire biological samples and environmental data; prepare equipment, datasheets, and instruments; operate vehicles; work in adverse conditions.
• Perform literature reviews; organize data, digital documents, databases, and metadata; communicate with collaborators; facilitate meetings and workshops; support federal approval processes.
• Meet performance milestones; submit deliverables on schedule; ensure safety compliance; prepare data files and graphics for reports/presentations; catalog and archive all data.
• Remedy monitoring/data issues promptly; notify government representatives when additional technical assistance is needed.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Skills

DNA sequencing

eDNA metabarcoding

qPCR

ddPCR

Gel electrophoresis

R programming

Field sampling

Data management

Statistical analysis

Independent work

Communication skills

Education

PhD

Tools

DNA sequencing instruments

PCR/qPCR/ddPCR equipment

Job description

Cherokee Federal seeks a Molecular Biology Researcher to support our federal client in Gainesville, FL. You will lead molecular and genetic analyses on invasive and imperiled species, support eDNA/metabarcoding projects, conduct field sampling, and publish results that inform natural resource management.

Full-time; travel and fieldwork required. Lead lab research on eDNA, metabarcoding, population genetics, disease research, and/or genetic biocontrol; extract, purify, and quantify DNA/RNA;