Research Support

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

Research Assistant

• Appropriate bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Research Associate

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field .

• 2 year’s relevant professional experience with various molecular biology techniques, including PCR and real-time PCR, nucleic acid isolation (DNA and RNA), gel electrophoresis.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of B.A./B.S. degree in Biology, Genetics or other related Biological science disciplines.

• Two years’ experience in a molecular biology laboratory (other than laboratory coursework).

• Familiarity and experience with next generation sequencing library preparation for Illumina sequencing systems, as well as familiarity and experience with the operation of Illumina sequencing systems.

• Experience with the operation and programming of automated sample preparation systems (Eppendorf epMotion 5075 or similar).

• Experience with 10x single cell/nuclei RNAseq library preparation and 10x Visium assays is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.

• Ability to positively and professionally interact with clients and staff.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

• Must be able to work with and explain advanced techniques to people with a wide range of knowledge.

• Must have familiarity with word processing, spreadsheet and database applications, and Windows.

• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Responsibilities

• Research Support- Provides research support for the TIGSS Shared Molecular Genomics Laboratory. Performs specific molecular biology experiments. Interacts and assists investigators that use the facility. Interacts with faculty, staff and students of Texas A&M to provide training and supervision of equipment usage in the laboratory. Works with and explains advanced techniques to people with a wide range of knowledge.

• Next Generation Sequencing Operations- Performs the production of next generation sequencing libraries, including sample preparation, quality control, library preparation, pooling, and sequencing. Assists in the design, development, and implementation of automated next generation sequencing library preparation workflows.

• Other Non-Sequencing Operations- Performs sample preparation, quality control and analyses for any of a variety of other molecular genomics procedures which may include, but are not limited to: SNP genotyping arrays, DNA methylation arrays, RT-qPCR, droplet digital PCR, primer design, optical genome mapping.

• TIGSS Lab Operations- Assists with day to day operations of the TIGSS Molecular Genomics Laboratory. Assists with lab maintenance and cleaning, maintaining inventory and assisting with equipment maintenance. Performs other duties as assigned.