Genomics and Multi-omics Senior Laboratory Research Specialist, Biology

The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia's College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences seeks applications for a full-time Senior Laboratory Research Specialist to provide genomic and multi-omic technical support, training, and consultation to research groups across the Department and, as demand warrants, elsewhere in the College. The position reconstitutes and expands the Department's genomics support beyond traditional DNA library preparation to encompass single-cell and single-nucleus methods, epigenomics, spatial transcriptomics, and multi-omic sample preparation.

The Senior Laboratory Research Specialist works with laboratories throughout the Department-using departmental and laboratory-hosted instrumentation-to design and execute experiments, train personnel, and build shared technical capacity. Projects are undertaken on a fee-for-service basis with faculty and departmental oversight. Broad service across the Department's research areas, and across a wide range of organisms and sample types, is a core expectation of the role, as is the flexibility to grow with the Department's evolving technical needs.

Additional technical specialist positions in complementary areas are anticipated.

• Consulting with faculty, staff, and trainees on experimental design, platform selection, sample and library QC strategy, cost, and feasibility.
• Preparing next-generation sequencing libraries across a range of applications: bulk RNA-seq, genomic DNA, and amplicon libraries; single-cell and single-nucleus RNA-seq and multi-omic methods (e.g., 10x Genomics, Parse Biosciences); epigenomic assays (ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq/CUT&RUN, bisulfite-seq); and spatial transcriptomics.
• Extraction and quality control for nucleic acids from diverse tissues, species, and sample types-including low-input, degraded, and non-traditional model organism samples-by real-time PCR/qPCR, fluorometry, and automated electrophoresis (Agilent Tape Station).
• Performing in-house Illumina MiSeq or Nanopore sequencing; coordinating submissions to and negotiating rates with external sequencing providers; preparing samples for proteomic and metabolomic analysis in coordination with other facilities.
• Performing of standard sample-to-result data handling (e.g., demultiplexing, read quality control, alignment, and generation of count or feature matrices).
• Training users across the Department: personalized, bench-side instruction for undergraduate researchers, graduate students, postdocs, and staff, together with periodic workshops; developing and maintaining protocols and best-practice documentation.
• Coordinating use of departmental and laboratory-hosted instrumentation across research groups; maintaining equipment inventories, service contracts, and maintenance plans; implementing cost-reduction strategies (bulk purchasing, pooled service contracts, negotiated discounts, avoidance of redundant purchases).
• Purchasing and maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment; service unit tracking and monthly billing; contributing to the development of operating procedures and rates in consultation with departmental faculty and leadership.
• Providing support, as departmental needs evolve, in adjacent molecular biology methods including molecular cloning and plasmid construction, PCR, qPCR, and digital droplet PCR, genotyping, and in situ hybridization.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree.
• Experience:
  
  5+ years of relevant experience required.

• Ph.D. or M.S. in molecular biology, genomics, genetics, or a related field.
• Strong background in molecular biology techniques, with demonstrated ability to follow, adapt, and develop laboratory protocols.
• Hands-on experience with multiple methods of sequencing library preparation, including single-cell or single-nucleus methods and, ideally, at least one epigenomic or spatial approach; experience with real-time PCR/qPCR and automated electrophoresis (Agilent Tape Station or equivalent).
• Experience supporting multiple independent research groups, and the ability to work effectively across diverse organisms, sample types, and scientific questions, including non-model systems.
• Broad molecular biology and biochemistry skills beyond core genomics-for example cloning, digital droplet PCR, genotyping, or in situ hybridization-with flexibility to apply them as departmental needs evolve.
• Experience in pre-processing of sequencing reads and standard analysis methods (coverage, quality, mutations); working proficiency at the command line and in R and/or Python.
• Demonstrated teaching, mentoring, or training experience, and enthusiasm for building technical skills in others.
• Demonstrated analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with spreadsheets, ordering, and budget management.
• Excellent communication skills, ability to work independently, and ability to set and communicate priorities transparently…