Research Associate - Genotyping

Aquatechcenter; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 46,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sick/vacation plan

Group health care

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

The Center for Aquaculture Technologies, located in San Diego, CA, seeks a Research Associate to support the development, optimization, and implementation of next-generation sequencing services in the Genotyping lab.

The role focuses on SNP panel development, library prep, and high-throughput DNA extractions, with emphasis on data quality and automation to boost throughput. Strong English communication and meticulous work practices are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related field is required.
• Experience with assay development and library preparations on sequencing platforms.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing SNP panels and assays for various species.
• Perform NGS library preparation and QC.
• Conduct high-throughput DNA extractions and quality assessments.
• Troubleshoot to improve processes and data quality.
• Develop automation to increase throughput in genotyping labs.
• Collaborate within teams and coordinate training with technicians.
• Maintain lab inventories, upkeep, and vendor coordination.

Skills

Detail oriented

Excellent English

Team collaboration

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology or related field

Tools

Illumina sequencing

Ion sequencing

Oxford Nanopore

AmpliSeq genotyping

DNA extraction systems

Liquid handling automation

Job description

Job Description

Research Associate - Genotyping

The Center for Aquaculture Technologies, a private aquaculture innovation and research company, is seeking a Research Associate to assist development, optimization, and implementation of next-generation sequencing services in the Genotyping lab in San Diego, CA.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in developing SNP panels and associated assays for various species [emphasis on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) applications on Thermo ION platform, Element Aviti Platform and Oxford Nanopore platform].
• Perform Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation/QC
• Perform high-throughput DNA extractions and quality assessments.
• Troubleshooting to improve processes and data consistency and quality.
• Develop and deploy appropriate automation to aid processing and improve throughput on the genotyping platforms.
• Work collaboratively within team settings with scientists, technicians, and other associates as well as independently within well-defined guidelines.
• Coordinate with Research Technicians on training and troubleshooting processes; and participate in laboratory upkeep including equipment maintenance, vendor sourcing and restocking supplies, and maintaining inventories.

Key Qualifications:

• Experience with assay development and library preparations on Illumina/Ion sequencing platforms (Preferably Thermo ION sequencing platform, AmpliSeq genotyping, Agriplex, PacBio and Oxford Nanopore Chemistries)
• Experience with liquid handling automation; to aid processing and improve throughput on the genotyping platforms (Preferably experience with DNA extraction systems, and with liquid handling instruments)
• Bachelor's degree in biology, Biological Sciences, Life Science and/or a related field is required.
• Good computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office is required.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in both group and one on one settings.
• Must be organized, detail-oriented and meticulous in following set protocols and record keeping.
• Ability to multitask and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, production environment.
• Excellent English (both verbal and written) is required.
• Training Schedule Required (3-4 months) - Monday through Friday 9-5:30pm

CAT offers a competitive salary ($46,000-$79,000 based on experience).

• a generous sick/vacation plan
• group health care
• retirement savings plans