Research Professional II

Position Information

Classification Title Research Paraprofessional/Professional FLSA Non-Exempt FTE 1.00

Minimum Qualifications

Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications

Laboratory experience in performing molecular biology and/or microbiology experiments.

Position Summary

This incumbent will oversee day-to-day research experiments and diagnostic testing in the Shariat Lab. The lab studies the ecology of Salmonella in food animals and the environment by microbiological culture, molecular, and next-generation sequencing. The major duties involve Salmonella molecular diagnostics and research and the employee will be responsible for planning, conducting, and reporting diagnostic and research experiments and assisting trainees in the lab with ongoing projects.

The employee will utilize good organizational and communication skills and adherence to good laboratory practices. Other duties include maintaining lab inventory and equipment, ensuring overall lab organization, and safety compliance.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

* Ability to follow SOPs, read, write, and understand English

* Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point

* Attention to detail and good record keeping skills

Physical Demands

Stand and/or sit for long periods of time and perform repetitive tasks.

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes Credit and P-Card policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable.

Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities

* Molecular protocols (DNA isolation, PCR, purification, qPCR, gel electrophoresis) and preparation of sequence libraries for Salmonella diagnostic samples.

* Analysis and interpretation of sequence data, accurate record keeping, and preparation of diagnostic reports.

Percentage of time 65 Duties/Responsibilities

* Perform scientific experiments and manage data collection for large projects under Principal investigator's direction. This will include performing research protocols for microbiological isolation of Salmonella from environmental and animal samples and performing various molecular assays (PCR, DNA extraction, purification) to characterize Salmonella.

* Independently organize and analyze research data, perform statistical analysis, and prepare reports.

* The employee is encouraged to write peer reviewed manuscripts under the guidance of the PI.

Percentage of time 20 Duties/Responsibilities

* Supervise lab organization and maintain inventory, supplies, and equipment.

* Train other lab members.

* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of proper research SOPs.

Percentage of time 10 Duties/Responsibilities

* Lab maintenance to comply with all safety regulations of hazardous…