Research Associate, Genetics ​/ Genomics, Research Scientist

Research Associate

Texas A&M Agri Life Research

Entomology

Proposed Minimum Salary:
Commensurate

Job Location:

College Station, Texas

Job Type: Staff

Job Description:

Texas A&M Agri Life is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:

• Texas A&M Agri Life Extension Service
• Texas A&M Agri Life Research
• College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University
• Texas A&M Forest Service
• Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

As the nation's largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M Agri Life brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M Agri Life is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.

Job Responsibilities:

• Research and Experimental Support
• Molecular Analysis, Data Evaluation, and Research Equipment Operation
• Research Publications, Proposals, and Reporting
• Training and Laboratory Coordination
• Compliance, Safety, and Laboratory Operations

Required

Education:

Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, genomics, bioengineering, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education:

Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, genomics, bioengineering, or a closely related field. Coursework or training in molecular genetics, genome engineering, DNA repair, transgenesis, or genomics. Training in laboratory safety, biosafety, genetically modified organism handling, arthropod containment, or related research compliance areas.

Required Experience:

Two years of related experience in a specialized and relevant field of research.

Preferred Experience:

Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster or other laboratory model organisms.

Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, transgenesis, gene drive systems, DNA repair assays, or functional genetics.

Experience with genetic crosses, insect colony maintenance, fluorescence-based screening, phenotyping, or multigenerational inheritance studies.

Experience analyzing DNA repair outcomes, including homology-directed repair, end joining, microhomology-mediated end joining, single-strand annealing, indel formation, or resistance allele formation.

Experience with plasmid construction, guide RNA design, donor template preparation, embryo microinjection support, or transgenic line screening. Experience with HRMA, Sanger sequencing analysis, nanopore sequencing preparation, inverse PCR, or other genotyping/sequencing-based methods.

Experience preparing scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, progress reports, conference abstracts, or presentations.

Experience training students, technicians, or other laboratory personnel.

Experience working under biosafety or containment protocols for genetically modified organisms or arthropods.

Experience conducting laboratory research in molecular biology, genetics, genomics, or a related scientific field.

Experience using standard molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, PCR, gel electrophoresis, genotyping, sequencing preparation, or DNA/RNA sample handling.

Experience maintaining accurate laboratory records, organizing data, and summarizing experimental results.

Experience using computers and applicable software for data entry, data analysis, literature review, figure preparation, and scientific communication.

Experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting laboratory or technical research equipment. Experience working independently while following established research protocols and safety procedures.

Experience working collaboratively with faculty, students, staff, or other research personnel.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Knowledge of standard laboratory research methods in molecular biology, genetics, or a related field. Familiarity with appropriate laboratory and technical equipment used in molecular biology, genetics, and insect research.

Ability to effectively utilize a computer and applicable software for data analysis, recordkeeping, literature review, and scientific communication.

Ability to follow research protocols, maintain detailed records, and ensure accuracy in experimental work.

Ability to organize, evaluate, and summarize research data.

Ability to exercise discretion and judgment in planning experiments, troubleshooting procedures, and interpreting results.

Ability to manage multiple research tasks and meet project deadlines.

Attention to detail. Ability to communicate effectively with faculty, students, staff, and collaborators.

Ability to train others in routine research procedures and laboratory practices.

Ability to work occasional weekends or after normal business hours as required by experimental schedules or insect colony needs.

Preferred Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Knowledge of Drosophila or insect genetics. Knowledge of CRISPR/Cas9 genome…