Deadline: Sat, 11/11/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: Conservation and Landscape Genetic laboratories Job Field: Wildlife Job Type: Full Time Location: Georgia Location Detail: Athens Job Description: The Research Coordinator/Lab Manager will assist PIs Bothwell and Shamblin with research planning and management of their Conservation and Landscape Genetic laboratories. Ongoing projects focus on species of conservation management concern, including marine turtles, black bear, ruffed grouse, foundation tree species, rare flora, etc. Primary responsibilities will include cataloging and tracking of tissue and DNA samples, genomic DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing library preparation, QC and genomic analysis. The incumbent will maintain and organize detailed experimental records and computer databases, and support ordering and inventory of laboratory supplies. Additional duties and opportunities may include supporting field work (e.g., sample collections), greenhouse experiments, working with GIS data and geospatial analyses, and contributing to grant writing and publications. 1. 70% of the incumbent’s time will be allocated to planning and management of research focused on high-throughput sequencing of species of conservation concern. Responsibilities will include execution of experimental duties (e.g., DNA extractions, PCR, library preparation), and contributing to genomic data analysis, data management, and archiving. The incumbent may also support field work such as sample collections, greenhouse experiments, and contribute to grant writing and publications. 2. 15% of time will be allocated for coordination and management of laboratory resources including sample inventory, ordering and management of chemical inventory, and hazardous waste management in compliance with university protocols. The incumbent will maintain digital sample inventory databases and curate specimen collections. They will also maintain laboratory notebooks and documentation of experimental research with detailed records of parameters and results. 3. 15% of time will be allocated to training laboratory assistants and supporting graduate student researchers with protocol development and troubleshooting. The incumbent must be effective at training students and coworkers in the proper use of laboratory equipment, experimental methods, proper laboratory techniques, and appropriate use of laboratory resources. Qualifications: The minimum qualification is a (1) Bachelor of Science in molecular biology, genetics, or a closely related field and 2 years of experience in a high-throughput genomics laboratory, or a (2) Master of Science in genetics, molecular ecology, or a closely related field plus 1 year of experience in a high-throughput genomics laboratory. Experience with microsatellite PCR, fragment analysis, RADseq, whole genome sequencing, liquid handling automation, and bioinformatics will be viewed favorably. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Proficiency in laboratory research skills with experience in genetics, genomics and molecular biology is essential. Competency in high-throughput PCR-based genotyping and DNA sequencing will be required. Must be detail oriented, including detailed recording of experimental procedures and results. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills. They will also demonstrate proficiency in computational skills, including database management, bioinformatics, coding (e.g., R, Python), and familiarity with molecular analysis software and high performance computing environments. Demonstrated experience preparing analyses for scientific peer review and writing for publication will be preferred. Physical Demands: Must be able to sit or stand at the laboratory bench for extended periods of time. Must be able to lift boxes or equipment up to 25 pounds. Must be able to conduct fieldwork including collection of plant and animal samples from forested study sites, occasionally during non-regular work hours. May occasionally require strenuous activity in summer temperatures. Salary: Full-time salary, ranging from $38,000 - $52,000 commensurate with experience. One year appointment, with extension dependent on satisfactory performance and funding How to Apply: Send the following materials as a single PDF file; cc Helen.Bothwell@uga.edu and Brianshm@warnell.uga.edu. Please include a (1) brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, professional interests, and career goals (one page max), (2) CV including names and contact details for three references, (3) unofficial academic transcripts, and a (4) writing sample (e.g., term paper, thesis, or publication for which you were the primary author). Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.
