Molecular Disease Surveillance Technician

Akima; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Akima Systems Engineering (ASE) seeks a Biologist Technician III to perform laboratory duties and molecular techniques for disease surveillance in collaboration with USGS National Wildlife Health Center personnel. The role involves necropsies, nucleic acid extraction, PCR-based assays, and data management to support rapid disease detection and public safety.

The incumbent will maintain laboratory SOPs, assist with data analysis, and support publication of findings, while adhering to QA/QMS

Qualifications

• US citizen with ability to pass government background check (may take weeks).
• Bachelor's degree in a science field and 1 year of field/work-related lab experience.
• Experience with PCR, real-time PCR, cloning and DNA sequencing to identify fungal strains and detect pathogens.
• Experience assisting with necropsies.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to use computer software/databases to develop presentations and research reports.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory duties and molecular techniques for disease surveillance.
• Collaborate with USGS scientists to collect data, perform analyses, and publish reports.
• Maintain SOPs and a detailed laboratory notebook; adhere to QMS and chain-of-custody procedures.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment; use LIMS to track specimens from log-in to disposition.
• Provide technical support for necropsy activities and histology operations.
• Prepare samples for nucleic acid extraction and perform conventional PCR, real-time PCR, cloning and sequencing.
• Assist to assemble and analyze data for inclusion in reports/publications.

Skills

PCR

Real-time PCR

DNA sequencing

Necropsies

LIMS

Histology

Data analysis

Cloning

Molecular biology

Education

Bachelor's degree in Science

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Akima Systems Engineering (ASE) seeks a Biologist Technician III to perform laboratory duties and molecular techniques for disease surveillance in collaboration with USGS National Wildlife Health Center personnel. The role involves necropsies, nucleic acid extraction, PCR-based assays, and data management to support rapid disease detection and public safety.

The incumbent will maintain laboratory SOPs, assist with data analysis, and support publication of findings, while adhering to QA/QMS