Research Associate - Molecular Biology

Texas A&M University System; College Station (TX); In loco; USD 55.000 - 85.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

Texas A&M AgriLife Research in College Station, TX seeks a Research Associate in Molecular Biology to design and carry out molecular biology experiments, from sample intake to nucleic acid extraction, sequencing, and data delivery, under supervision. You will train students, maintain records, and contribute to manuscripts and proposals.

Responsibilities include library prep, QC checks, data analysis, field sampling, and collaboration with lab staff.

Competenze

• Bachelor's degree in life science, chemistry, or a related field.
• Two years of related professional experience in molecular biology, molecular diagnostics, or a closely related field.
• Bench experience with nucleic acid extraction, quantitative PCR or next generation sequencing library preparation, and quality control of nucleic acids.
• Familiarity with standard molecular biology laboratory equipment and the ability to follow and apply established protocols.
• Ability to use computers and applicable software to manage data, perform statistical analyses, and present results.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work cooperatively with laboratory staff, students, and collaborators, with consistent record keeping and sample chain of custody.
• Clear written communication, including detailed laboratory records and technical summaries.
• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Mansioni

• Design, plan, conduct, and coordinate molecular biology experiments in support of the laboratory's research projects, including sample processing and sequencing runs.
• Evaluate, select, and apply established protocols for nucleic acid extraction, sequencing library preparation, and targeted molecular assays, including quantitative PCR, across environmental, animal, and food sample types, and assist with protocol optimization for new sample types.
• Prepare next generation sequencing libraries and carry out sequencing runs on the laboratory's platforms, including nanopore instruments, and troubleshoot routine run problems.
• Perform quality control checks on input material and finished libraries against established acceptance criteria, keep detailed records of quality control data, and report results that fall outside specification to the principal investigator.
• Compile and analyze sequencing run metrics and assay data, carry out initial data processing (basecalling, demultiplexing, and read quality assessment), and prepare data packages for the laboratory's bioinformatics staff.
• Participate in field and farm sample collection, including cold chain handling, chain of custody documentation, and recording of sample metadata.
• Maintain sample inventories and detailed data records in line with the laboratory's data management policy.
• Train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in molecular methods, instrument operation, and quality control, and contribute to written standard operating procedures.
• Install, operate, and maintain sequencing and quality control instruments, including routine performance checks, and report service needs to the lab manager.
• Summarize results and prepare methods descriptions and figures for manuscripts and project reports, and assist with the preparation of funding proposals.
• Work with postdoctoral researchers, collaborators, and the lab manager on experiment timelines, reagent and consumable needs, and reporting of results.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Conoscenze

Molecular biology

Quantitative data analysis

Record keeping

Formazione

Bachelor's degree in life sciences

Strumenti

Nucleic acid extraction

qPCR

Sequencing library prep

Nanopore sequencing

Descrizione del lavoro

Job Title

Research Associate - Molecular Biology

Agency

Texas A&M Agrilife Research

Department

Animal Science

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

About Texas A&M AgriLife

Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

Texas A&M AgriLife Research

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University

Texas A&M Forest Service

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

As the nation's largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.

Position Information

The Research Associate, under general supervision, is responsible for designing, planning, conducting, and coordinating molecular biology experiments for the laboratory's research projects, from field sample intake through nucleic acid extraction, sequencing, quality control, and data delivery. The research associate will apply established laboratory protocols, keep detailed records of data and quality control results, train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students, and summarize results for manuscripts, reports, and funding proposals.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, conduct, and coordinate molecular biology experiments in support of the laboratory's research projects, including sample processing and sequencing runs.
• Evaluate, select, and apply established protocols for nucleic acid extraction, sequencing library preparation, and targeted molecular assays, including quantitative PCR, across environmental, animal, and food sample types, and assist with protocol optimization for new sample types.
• Prepare next generation sequencing libraries and carry out sequencing runs on the laboratory's platforms, including nanopore instruments, and troubleshoot routine run problems.
• Perform quality control checks on input material and finished libraries against established acceptance criteria, keep detailed records of quality control data, and report results that fall outside specification to the principal investigator.
• Compile and analyze sequencing run metrics and assay data, carry out initial data processing (basecalling, demultiplexing, and read quality assessment), and prepare data packages for the laboratory's bioinformatics staff.
• Participate in field and farm sample collection, including cold chain handling, chain of custody documentation, and recording of sample metadata.
• Maintain sample inventories and detailed data records in line with the laboratory's data management policy.
• Train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in molecular methods, instrument operation, and quality control, and contribute to written standard operating procedures.
• Install, operate, and maintain sequencing and quality control instruments, including routine performance checks, and report service needs to the lab manager.
• Summarize results and prepare methods descriptions and figures for manuscripts and project reports, and assist with the preparation of funding proposals.
• Work with postdoctoral researchers, collaborators, and the lab manager on experiment timelines, reagent and consumable needs, and reporting of results.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a life science, chemistry, or a related field.
• Two years of related professional experience in molecular biology, molecular diagnostics, or a closely related field.
• Bench experience with nucleic acid extraction, quantitative PCR or next generation sequencing library preparation, and quality control of nucleic acids.
• Familiarity with standard molecular biology laboratory equipment and the ability to follow and apply established protocols.
• Ability to use computers and applicable software to manage data, perform statistical analyses, and present results.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work cooperatively with laboratory staff, students, and collaborators, with consistent record keeping and sample chain of custody.
• Clear written communication, including detailed laboratory records and technical summaries.
• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Experience operating nanopore sequencing instruments or short read sequencing platforms.
• Experience running quantitative PCR or digital PCR assays.
• Experience processing environmental, animal, or food samples, including low biomass samples and samples with high inhibitor loads.
• Familiarity with command line tool