Researcher II

Utah State University; Utah; On-site; USD 58,500 - 71,500; Full time

Job summary

Utah State University is seeking a Research Associate for the National Wildlife Research Center. The role involves optimizing laboratory assays related to chronic wasting disease (CWD) and analyzing ecological and genetic data of cervids.

The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. and possess strong molecular biology skills, along with experience in interdisciplinary research. This position offers a starting salary of $65,000 and excellent benefits.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Ability to work safely in a BSL-2 laboratory.
• Strong experience with molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory assays for CWD detection.
• Analyze data related to cervid ecology and genetics.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Written and oral communication

Computational biology

Interdisciplinary research

Assay optimization

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent experience

Job description

Overview The National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) and the Utah State University (USU) disease ecology lab seek a Research Associate to assist with collaborative, interdisciplinary chronic wasting disease (CWD) studies. The position will be filled through USU, but will be located at the NWRC headquarters in Fort Collins, CO.

Responsibilities

The Research Associate will be responsible for (1) performing, optimizing, and trouble‑shooting laboratory assays for the detection of CWD and for genetic characterization of free‑ranging cervids; (2) producing and analyzing data to investigate the relationship between cervid ecology, CWD epidemiology, and host genetics; (3) summarizing data and reporting results to USU staff and stakeholders; (4) preparing scientific manuscripts or assisting with manuscript preparation for the dissemination of results. The Research Associate may also provide field and animal care support as needed. Strong written and oral communication skills are imperative.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in prion biology, wildlife disease ecology, genomics, or a related field
• Ability to work safely and independently in a BSL‑2 laboratory
• Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques, including assay optimization and troubleshooting
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Experience participating in or designing interdisciplinary research
• Experience in computational biology, data management and visualization, and/or bioinformatics

Preferred Qualification

• Experience with GWAS

Required Documents

• Resume/CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
• Name and contact information for 3 professional references to be typed at the beginning of the application
• Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application

Document size may not exceed 10 MB.

Advertised Salary

Minimum $65,000 commensurate with experience plus excellent benefits.

ADA

The environment and physical requirements may change depending on the specific function of the work each department performs. Incumbents may be in both indoor and outdoor environments. Indoors, in an office space, event space, or public space are protected from weather conditions, but not necessarily from temperature changes. Incumbents may nearly continuously sit and often use repetitive hand motion (such as typing). Outdoors, incumbents may not be protected from weather conditions and may be exposed to extreme heat and extreme cold. Additionally, indoor or outdoor work environments may include being confined or in narrow spaces for periods of time. The incumbent may also be exposed to loud noises or vibrations from equipment, and conditions that may affect the respiratory system, such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, and poor ventilation. Bending, crawling, and crouching may be required. Incumbents may be required to lift, push, and/or pull objects up to 50 pounds and be required to walk and/or stand for long periods of time.

Notice of Non‑discrimination

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law. Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law. Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.

Contact: Matthew Pinner, Executive Director, Civil Rights & Title IX Office, [e-mail], 435‑797‑1266 | Old Main Rm. 401D, 1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322; Cody Carmichael, Title IX Coordinator, [e-mail], 435‑797‑1266 | Old Main Rm. 402D, 1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322; For further information regarding non‑discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact: U.S. Department of Education, Denver Regional Office, 303‑844‑5695 | [e-mail], U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800‑421‑3481 | [e-mail].