Research Assistant 2 or 3 (Technician)

University of Connecticut; Storrs (CT); On-site; USD 46,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Connecticut in Storrs is seeking two Research Assistants (RA 2 or RA 3) to join the R. O’Neill and J. Wegrzyn labs.

You will generate short- and long-read sequencing data across ONT, PacBio, and Illumina platforms, contributing to telomere-to-telomere genome projects and comparative analyses. Ideal candidates will have experience with NGS library preparation, high molecular weight DNA extraction, and strong data management skills in HPC environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in molecular biology or related field; 2–5 years post-degree experience for RA2, or Master’s with relevant experience for RA3.
• Experience with NGS library preparation and sequencing.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in a high-volume lab.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and speech.
• Experience with NGS and library preparation methods.

Responsibilities

• Isolate nucleic acids from tissues, blood, and cell cultures.
• Perform next generation sequencing applications across platforms.
• QC and library preparation for sequencing runs.
• Run UL Oxford Nanopore and other flow cells; manage data in HPC.
• Assess sequence quality metrics and report results.
• Support training of new students and oversee data production.

Skills

NGS library prep

Data interpretation

Independence in experiments

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in molecular biology or related field

Master's degree in molecular biology or related field

Tools

Oxford Nanopore sequencing

PacBio sequencing

Illumina sequencing

HPC data management

DNA extraction

Job description

Apply now Search #: 499571
Work type: Full-time
Location: UConn Storrs
Categories: Research

JOB SUMMARY

The R. O’Neill lab and the J. Wegrzyn lab, both in the Institute for Systems Genomics at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, are looking for two Research Assistants to join our teams of scientists, ateither the Research Assistant 2 or 3 level. The labs specialize in broad genomic applications, with a focus on data generation for assessing genome integrity and performing genome assembly, annotation and comparative genomics. Our goal is to sequence endangered species across a broad range of taxonomic groups, including mammals (eutherian, prototherian, and metatherian), birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and plants, providing telomere-to-telomere genomes for comparative analyses.

The primary role of the positions will focus on both short- and long-read data generation across multiple sequencing platforms (ONT, PacBio, Illumina) and broad sequencing applications (whole genome shotgun, targeted sequencing, Omni-C/Hi-C, CUT&RUN, and new protocols developed in our research programs. Extensive knowledge and practical experience in high molecular weight DNA extractions and ultra-long ONT sequencing is preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Isolate nucleic acids from a variety of sample types, including tissues, blood, and cell cultures
• Perform next generation sequencing applications
• QC and library preparation
• Run standard and UL Oxford Nanopore Technologies flow cells
• Manage sequencing data in a HPC environment
• Assess sequence quality metrics
• Support training new students
• Oversee sample processing and data production
• Independently perform and modify established methods
• Maintain positive working relationships with other staff, faculty and students
• Demonstrate and practice lab safety precautions
• Attend annual safety courses required by UConn and other agencies
• Maintain accurate records for protocols, samples, and data reporting
• Follow manufacturer's guidelines regarding the handling and maintenance of all lab equipment
• Maintain working knowledge of equipment operation manuals and procedure manuals
• Facilitate the documentation of and reporting to collaborators regarding research efforts; facilitate progress reports, manuscript submissions and grants preparation

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• RA 2 only: Bachelor's degree in molecular biology or a related area of study and two to three years of relevant post‑degree experience; OR Master's degree in molecular biology or a related area of study and up to one year of relevant post‑degree experience.
• RA 3 only: Bachelor's degree in molecular biology or a related area of study and four to five years of relevant post‑degree experience; OR Master's degree in molecular biology or a related area of study and two to four years of relevant post‑degree experience.
• Both levels: Experience analyzing, interpreting, and troubleshooting experiments independently and with colleagues.
• Both levels: Demonstrated experience communicating in a professional environment in written and oral format.
• Both levels: Experience with NGS library preparation and/or sequencing.
• Both levels: Experience with other NGS and library preparation methods.
• Both levels: Demonstrated experience with the practices and principles of NGS.
• Both levels: Demonstrated organizational skills, including accuracy and attention to detail while performing a high volume of work.
• Both levels: Demonstrated laboratory and instrumentation skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Both levels: Experience in a multi‑disciplinary research environment.
• Both levels: Experience with bioinformatic analytical tools and genome assembly.
• Both levels: Experience with nuclei preparation from frozen cells/tissue.
• Both levels: Experience with genomics data analysis/computational pipelines/bioinformatics.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

These are full‑time, 12‑month, end‑dated positions, subject to renewal based on funding and performance. Salary will be commensurate with experience. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/health‑benefits/.

Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the American Association of University Professors UConn Chapter (AAUP).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre‑employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs , Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #499571 and submit the following application materials: resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

The review of applications is anticipated to begin in June 26, and the position will be posted until filled.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.

Advertised: Jun 29 2026 Eastern Daylight Time