RT-QulC Laboratory Research Technician 2026-02082

State of Wyoming; Laramie (WY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Job summary

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Veterinary Services Unit seeks a laboratory technician to advance RT-QulC assays for chronic wasting disease and to lead a study on prion kinetics using wildlife samples. Travel to field sites may be required.

Responsibilities include designing and performing controlled assays, data entry and management, and communicating results to stakeholders, while maintaining SOPs and QA/QC per ISO 17025/NAHLN requirements.

Qualifications

• Preference for Master’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, pre-veterinary science, biology or related field.
• Two years of professional laboratory experience preferred.
• Experience in molecular laboratory work and bioinformatics skills beneficial.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Design and perform controlled assays and experiments.
• Analyze data and communicate results to stakeholders.
• Sample processing (e.g. weighing, centrifugation, pipetting).
• Data entry and management of databases and spreadsheets.
• Travel for field sample collection.
• Perform diagnostic assays including RT-QuIC, PCR, ELISA, FPA and MAT.
• Develop and adhere to SOPs, QA/QC, and corrective action reports for ISO 17025/NAHLN.
• Assist with other duties as required.

Skills

Laboratory data management

Design & perform assays

Data analysis & communication

Travel for field sampling

Independent work

Education

Master’s degree in microbiology/molecular biology/related field

Tools

PCR

ELISA

RT-QuIC

DNA extraction

Job description

Position will close on September 22, 2026 at 11:59pm

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The successful applicant will perform a variety of laboratory research tasks to support multiple current and future research projects for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Veterinary Services Unit. Primary responsibilities will include optimization and application of real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QulC) assay for chronic wasting disease (CWD). The technician will lead a project looking to characterize prion kinetics using biological samples from a controlled longitudinal research study. The technician will also assist with other research projects, which aim to improve ante-mortem CWD detection by RT-QuIC, and investigate CWD shedding dynamics in elk. Some travel may be required for diagnostic sample collection in the field.

Benefits:

Seasonal temporary employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance. The department contributes toward employee-only coverage, with options available for dependent and family coverage at an additional cost to the employee.

Human Resources Contact: Dezzaree Schott / [e-mail]

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed at the job level.

• Use protocols and technical expertise adapted from experienced collaborators.
• Design and perform controlled assays and experiments.
• Analyze data, and communicate results to diverse stakeholders.
• Sample processing (e.g. cutting, weighing, centrifugation, pipetting).
• Data entry and management of databases, spreadsheets, and tables.
• Travel is required for a sample collection from field specimens.
• Perform diagnostic assays for wildlife disease identification including RT-QulC, PCR, ELISA, FPA, and MAT.
• Develop, maintain, and adhere to standard operating procedures, quality control, nonconformance documentation, and corrective action reports on diagnostic assays and laboratory equipment to meet ISO 17025 and NAHLN accreditation requirements.
• Assists with other duties as required.

PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:

Preference will be given to those with a Master’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, pre-veterinary science, biology, zoology, or another closely related field, plus two years of professional laboratory experience. Other related training and experience will be evaluated for placement in this position. Experience working in a molecular laboratory and has bioinformatics analysis skills. **Must have a valid driver's license.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Knowledge of veterinary laboratory diagnostic techniques and excellent troubleshooting skills.
• Outstanding laboratory organizational skills in sample tracking through testing, reporting, and storage.
• Ability to be flexible in a time schedule to perform tasks in the laboratory to meet deadlines and complete casework in a timely manner.
• Ability to initiate daily tasks and work independently with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to adhere to rigid laboratory standard operating procedures and quality controls, as well as a working knowledge of QA/QC requirements of ISO-17025 / NAHLN / AAVLD.
• Computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite, proficient with word processing, databases, and spreadsheets.
• Knowledge of topographic software programs.
• Knowledge of proper BSL-2 laboratory safety precautions and procedures.
• Working knowledge and developed skills in DNA extraction, PCR assays, and troubleshooting.
• Evidence of strong interpersonal skills, oral and written communications, work prioritization, teamwork, and decision-making.
• Willing to travel independently with little or no supervision.
• Ability to work outside, often for long periods in adverse weather conditions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

None - See "Preferences"

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

• Handling biological samples (e.g. tissues, blood).
• Ability to work with sodium hypochlorite (bleach)
• Ability to work outside in various weather conditions and terrain.
• Ability to operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle in various weather and road conditions.
• Approximately 95% of this position involves laboratory diagnostics and data management within a veterinary laboratory; the remaining 5% of duties occur outside of the laboratory.

NOTES:

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• Housing is not provided
• The expected start date is early January.
• Successful applicants for employment must pass a background check prior to appointment.
• In addition to submitting the state application, please submit a cover letter including career plans and suitability for the job.
• CONTACT: For more information regarding this position, contact Samantha Allen, State Wildlife Veterinarian, at [e-mail] or [phone].

040-Wyoming Game and Fish Department - Wildlife - Division

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.

Human Resources Contact: Dezzaree Schott / [e-mail]