Research Coordinator V

ULSA University of Louisville; United States; On-site; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Louisville is seeking a Research Coordinator V to lead wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) efforts in the Envirome Institute/Microbiology and Immunology. You will coordinate with laboratories, supervise weekly sample preparation, and perform molecular analyses to detect pathogens.

The role requires strong lab skills in nucleic acid extraction, RT-qPCR, and sequencing, plus the ability to interpret data and support reports and publications. Prior WBE experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and two years of relevant research experience.
• Master's degree in a related field preferred with additional experience.
• Experience in molecular detection and wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Prepare environmental/laboratory samples for nucleic acid analysis on a weekly schedule.
• Perform nucleic acid analyses including RT-qPCR and sequencing to support WBE efforts.
• Monitor assay performance using controls and troubleshoot assays as needed.
• Collaborate with leadership to develop detection strategies and prepare data for reports.

Skills

Research experience

Molecular biology

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Master's degree in related field

Tools

qRT-PCR

Next-generation sequencing

Nucleic acid extraction

Job description

Department: Location: Health Sciences Center
Time Type: Full time
Worker Type: Regular
Job Req ID: R109260

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field and two (2) years relevant research experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Grade 5 (Salaried)

Position Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Coordinator V in the UofL Envirome Institute/Microbiology and Immunology to assist in wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) efforts in support of local, regional, and commonwealth public health efforts. This position includes coordinating with several supporting entities/laboratories to ensure prompt sample preparation and analysis on a regular weekly basis. Specific tasks include sample preparation and direct laboratory and data analysis to detect specific pathogens of interest in a qualitative and quantitative manner. Preferred candidates will have a strong understanding and working knowledge of molecular laboratory techniques, including modern nucleic acid analyses. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in WBE efforts, and/or experience with molecular pathogen detection and analysis.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare environmental and/or laboratory samples for nucleic acid analysis on a regular recurring weekly schedule.
• Use nucleic acid analyses, including reverse-transcription, qRT-PCR, amplicon sequencing, and other next-generation sequencing technologies/data processing to support wastewater-based epidemiology efforts.
• Use internal and external controls to monitor assay sensitivity and specificity and troubleshoot existing assays if needed.
• In conjunction with project leadership, develop new or alternative detection strategies for pathogens of interest using primary literature.
• Manage sample and resource inventories using laboratory inventory platforms.
• Assist in the preparation of data for reports, publication, and presentations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field and two (2) years of relevant experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in the molecular detection of pathogens, wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE), and molecular epidemiology.
• Familiar with CDC compliant workflows and understanding of the National Wastewater Surveillance System.

Competencies

• Commitment and passion to science and should be able to work within a group with excellent communication and writing skills.
• Basic biology, microbiology or molecular biology techniques, including specifically but not limited to nucleic acid extraction and handling, revers transcription, PCR-based, and next-generation sequencing analyses.
• A working understanding of DNA and RNA biology.
• Data interpretation and analysis, oral and written communication skills, basic project / sample management, analytical skills, critical thinking, work ethics, excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in the team.

Target Compensation

Target Compensation Maximum: $72,389.00
Target Compensation Minimum: $48,225.00
Compensation will be commensurate to candidate experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Louisville is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. The University strives to provide equal employment opportunity on the basis of merit and without unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status, or pregnancy. In accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veteran Readjustment Act of 1974, the University prohibits job discrimination of individuals with disabilities, Vietnam era veterans, qualified special disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans. The University acknowledges its obligations to ensure affirmative steps are taken to ensure equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of the University that no employee or applicant for employment be subject to unlawful discrimination in terms of recruitment, hiring, promotion, contract, contract renewal, tenure, compensation, benefits, and/or working conditions. No employee or applicant for employment is required to endorse or condemn a specific ideology, political viewpoint, or social viewpoint to be eligible for hiring, contract renewal, tenure, or promotion. Consistent with applicable law, demographic information is collected for aggregate reporting requirements. Demographic information provided through this application is not available to hiring managers/committees and is not considered in hiring or employment decisions.

Assistance and Accommodations

Computers are available for application submission at the Human Resources Department located at 2315 South First Street Walk, Room 02C - Louisville, Kentucky 40292. If you require assistance or accommodation with our online application process, please contact us by email at [e-mail] or by phone [phone].

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