Research Specialist/Lab

The University of New Mexico; Monte Largo Hills (NM); On-site; USD 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits eligible

Tuition remission

Educational benefits

Job summary

The Evolutionary Genomics and Reproduction lab at The University of New Mexico seeks a motivated Research Specialist to support molecular genomics, cell culture, data analysis, and lab operations. You’ll help manage experiments, maintain records, and contribute to ongoing studies on reproduction and aging in primates.

Applicants should be detail-oriented, reliable, and able to work independently while thriving in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with related experience; degree substitution allowed.
• Bachelor's degree in biology, genetics, biological anthropology, or related field.
• 7 years of related experience or degree substitution per policy.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine molecular biology and genomics procedures (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, sequencing prep).
• Maintain adherent mammalian cell cultures and assess viability and growth.
• Keep accurate records of experiments, samples, and protocols.
• Support data analysis and literature searches using R or similar tools.
• Assist with laboratory organization, inventory, and safety documentation.
• Contribute to figures, tables, presentations, and manuscripts as needed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

Communication skills

Organization

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology or related field

Tools

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR

Sequencing library prep

Mammalian cell culture

R

Python

Job description

Research Specialist/Lab

Position Grade: 11

The Evolutionary Genomics and Reproduction lab in the Department of Anthropology seeks a highly motivated and organized Research Specialist to support research and day-to-day laboratory operations. Our lab uses genomic approaches and cell culture models to study the evolution of reproduction and aging in humans and non-human primates. The successful applicant will contribute to both laboratory operations and ongoing research projects, with responsibilities spanning molecular genomics, cell culture, data analysis, literature-based research, and laboratory organization. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, detail-oriented, dependable, and able to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research environment. This position is well suited for a recent graduate seeking research experience prior to graduate school, although highly motivated applicants with additional experience are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Research

• Perform routine molecular biology and genomics procedures, including DNA/RNA extraction, nucleic acid quality assessment, PCR, and library preparation for sequencing.
• Perform and maintain adherent mammalian cell cultures, including routine passaging, media preparation, cryopreservation, and assessment of cell viability and growth.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of experiments, samples, protocols, and laboratory materials.
• Follow established protocols carefully and develop the ability to troubleshoot and optimize laboratory procedures with appropriate guidance.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and monitor routine equipment performance and maintenance needs.

Research and Data Analysis

• Contribute to ongoing research projects in evolutionary genomics, reproduction, and aging.
• Perform literature searches, data mining, and organization of research information.
• Conduct basic data processing and statistical analyses using R or other analytical software.
• Contribute to preparation of figures, tables, presentations, manuscripts, and other research materials.

Laboratory Operations and Organization

• Order, receive, and appropriately store laboratory supplies and biological materials.
• Manage laboratory inventory and organize laboratory supplies, samples, and reagents.
• Assist with laboratory safety, training, documentation, and compliance requirements.

Successful candidates should demonstrate

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate, organized records.
• Ability to learn new laboratory techniques and follow detailed experimental protocols consistently and carefully.
• Ability to independently manage assigned tasks, prioritize multiple responsibilities, and develop increasing independence with research protocols.
• Basic understanding of molecular biology and genetics.
• Basic quantitative and analytical skills.
• Ability to receive and incorporate feedback and to communicate challenges, mistakes, and unexpected results openly and effectively.
• Commitment to maintaining a respectful, inclusive, collaborative, and scientifically rigorous research environment.
• Reliability, initiative, and willingness to take ownership of laboratory responsibilities.

See the Position Description for additional information.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED; at least 7 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, genetics, biological anthropology, or a related field.
• At least one year of research laboratory experience in the form of undergraduate research or post-graduate technical experience.
• Coursework in genetics, genomics, or molecular biology.
• Experience with adherent mammalian cell culture.
• Experience with molecular genomics methods, including DNA/RNA extraction, nucleic acid quality assessment, PCR, and sequencing library preparation.
• Experience with R, Python, or other statistical/scientific computing tools.
• Experience processing, organizing, or analyzing biological or genomic datasets.
• Experience with literature reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or scientific data extraction.
• Experience working in a BSL-2 laboratory environment.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

Campus: Main - Albuquerque, NM

Department: Anthropology Department (045A)

Employment Type: Staff

Staff Type: Term - Full-Time

Term End Date: One Year from Date of Hire (may be renewed)

Status: Non-Exempt

Pay: Hourly: $23.08

Benefits Eligible: This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for more information.

ERB Statement: As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.

Background Check Required: No

For Best Consideration Date: 9/2/2026

Eligible for Hiring Incentive: No

Eligible for Remote Work: No

Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.