Research Specialist II - GRC

001 University of Rochester; United States; On-site; USD 37,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Rochester Genomics Research Center is seeking a Laboratory Specialist to provide technical and operational support for genomics projects, including single-cell and spatial omics workflows.

You will perform nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and quality assessment while maintaining detailed records and supporting instrumentation maintenance. Training and protocol development are also part of the role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related research support experience.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing or single-cell genomics preferred.
• Able to troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical and operational support for genomic research projects.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, library prep, and quality assessment.
• Maintain accurate lab records to support quality and reproducibility.
• Operate and maintain sequencing instrumentation and QC platforms.
• Train and orient new lab members and assist with protocol development.
• Participate in lab meetings and safety education.

Skills

Troubleshooting equipment

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Customer-service mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree (preferred)

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address): 90 Crittenden Blvd, Room 30771, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642 Opening: Worker Subtype: Regular Time Type: Full time Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Department: 400855 Ctr for Advanced Research Tech Work Shift: UR - Day (United States of America) Range: UR URG 109 H Compensation Range: $27.16 - $38.03 The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

• Provides technical and operational support for genomics research projects conducted through the Genomics Research Center (GRC).
• Performs laboratory workflows supporting advanced genomics technologies, including single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, epigenomics, and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
• Conducts nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, library preparation, and other sample preparation procedures while ensuring high-quality and reproducible results.
• Maintains accurate laboratory records and documentation to support quality management and reproducibility.
• Supports the implementation, optimization, and troubleshooting of laboratory methods and instrumentation while ensuring high-quality data generation and exceptional service to investigators.
• Assists with training, protocol development, and continuous improvement of laboratory operations.
• Participates in the orientation and training of new lab members in experimental technique methods and safety education, as well as participating in lab meetings and seminars.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, library preparation workflows, and other sample preparation procedures for next-generation sequencing (NGS), single-cell, spatial omics, and related genomic applications.
• Maintains accurate laboratory records and documentation to support quality management and reproducibility.
• Operates, monitors, and maintains sequencing and ancillary laboratory instrumentation, including automated liquid handling systems and quality control platforms.
• Evaluates sequencing run performance and quality metrics, identifies technical issues, and assists with troubleshooting and corrective actions.
• Performs routine instrument maintenance and coordinates service and repairs with vendors as needed.
• Assists in the evaluation, implementation, validation, and optimization of emerging genomics technologies, instrumentation, automation platforms, and laboratory workflows to expand GRC capabilities and improve operational efficiency.
• Contributes to the development, optimization, validation, and documentation of laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Identifies opportunities to improve workflow efficiency, throughput, data quality, and resource utilization.
• Participates in quality assurance and quality control activities to ensure compliance with established laboratory standards.
• Trains laboratory staff and contributes to onboarding activities.
• Teaches lab techniques and instrumentation procedures to students, postdocs, and technical staff.
• Counsels on technical problems and advises and assists with special research projects.
• Orients all new lab members and ensures all health and safety procedures are maintained.
• May supervise research and support personnel.
• Keeps abreast of trends in field of interest by reading professional journals; and attend/participate in weekly lab meetings, and, as appropriate, institutes and seminars.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years related work experience involving direct assistance to researchers required
• Master's degree and experience with tissue culture, primary culture, and/or animal handling preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience with next-generation sequencing, single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, or other advanced molecular genomics technologies preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed required
• Demonstrated organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously preferred
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a customer-service mindset preferred
• Demonstrated attention to detail, dependability, and commitment to producing high-quality results preferred.
• Communicates effectively with investigators, laboratory personnel, bioinformatics staff, and vendors to facilitate successful project execution.
• Maintains a professional, collaborative, and service-oriented approach while interacting with investigators, colleagues, students, and external partners preferred.
• Demonstrates flexibility in managing multiple projects and priorities within a fast-paced service environment preferred.

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

Located in western New York, Rochester is our namesake and our home. One of the world’s leading research universities, Rochester has a long tradition of breaking boundaries—always pushing and questioning, learning and unlearning. We transform ideas into enterprises that create value and make the world ever better. If you’re looking for a career in higher education or health care, the University of Rochester may offer the perfect opportunity for your background and goals. At the University of Rochester, we are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture and are united by a strong commitment to be ever better—Meliora. It is an ideal that informs our shared mission to ensure all members of our community feel safe, respected, included, and valued.