Plant Genomics Research Specialist

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Virginia’s Department of Biology seeks a Research Laboratory Specialist to work in Dr. Michael Timko’s lab.

The role focuses on plant functional genomics and synthetic biology, requiring a self‑directed, independent researcher skilled in molecular biology, cell culture, cloning, transformation, and gene expression analysis with PCR, qRT‑PCR, immunoblotting, and RNA‑seq. Candidates should have basic bioscience, chemistry, statistics and bioinformatics skills, with additional

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, plant sciences or a related scientific discipline.
• Three or more years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Preferred: two or more years of laboratory experience beyond classroom work.
• Prior experience as a lab technician and supervisory experience.
• Proficiency in basic biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell culture techniques.
• Experience in gene cloning, gene transformation, and gene expression analysis.

Responsibilities

• Order laboratory reagents and maintain laboratory stocks.
• Schedule and maintain records of equipment and facilities maintenance.
• Assist in developing plans for research projects and discuss the interpretation of results.
• Provide written reports, keep data records, and assist in the preparation of scientific manuscripts for publication.
• Assist greenhouse staff with the maintenance of plant materials as needed.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cell culture

Cloning

Transformation

Gene expression analysis

PCR

qRT-PCR

Immunoblotting

RNA-seq

Bioinformatics

Statistics

Biochemistry

Plant growth

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, plant sciences or related

Tools

PCR techniques

qRT-PCR protocols

RNA‑seq data analysis

Job description

The University of Virginia’s Department of Biology seeks a Research Laboratory Specialist to work in Dr. Michael Timko’s lab.

The role focuses on plant functional genomics and synthetic biology, requiring a self‑directed, independent researcher skilled in molecular biology, cell culture, cloning, transformation, and gene expression analysis with PCR, qRT‑PCR, immunoblotting, and RNA‑seq. Candidates should have basic bioscience, chemistry, statistics and bioinformatics skills, with additional