Research Assistant

Research Assistant# The Texas A&M University System Job Search## Research Assistant Apply:
College Station, TX:
Full time:
Posted Today:
R-098387
** Job Title
** Research Assistant
** Agency
* * Texas A&M Agrilife Research
** Department
* * Animal Science
** Proposed Minimum Salary
** Commensurate
* * Job Location
** College Station, Texas
** Job Type
** Staff
* * Job Description
**** About Texas A&M Agri Life
** 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.

Click
** here
* * to learn more about joining Agri Life! #
** Position Information
***
* Job Summary:

** The Research Assistant is responsible for preparing sequencing libraries and run quality control for the laboratory's sequencing platforms, managing multiple samples across concurrent projects, and support field and on-farm sample collection for the laboratory's biosurveillance work.
** Responsibilities:
*** Support field and on-farm sample collection, including preparation of sampling kits, labeling, cold chain handling, and transport of samples back to the laboratory.
* Record sample collection metadata and assist with field sampling logistics and scheduling.
* Prepare next generation sequencing libraries from extracted nucleic acids, following established protocols.
* Perform nucleic acid extraction and handling across a range of sample types.
* Run quality control on input material and finished libraries, including fluorescent quantification and automated electrophoresis (Fragment Analyzer, Bioanalyzer, Tape Station, or comparable).
* Operate and maintain the laboratory's sequencing platforms, including nanopore instruments, and run the associated quality control workflows.
* Organize, label, and track samples across multiple concurrent projects, maintaining accurate records and sample chain of custody.
* Keep consistent documentation and contribute to laboratory data management practices.
* Support reagent and consumable inventory and general laboratory upkeep.
* Coordinate with project teams to schedule sequencing runs and report results.
*
* Qualifications:

***
* Required Qualifications:

*** Bachelor's degree in a life science, chemistry, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
* Hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology, including nucleic acid extraction and handling.
* Familiarity with next generation sequencing library preparation, or closely related benchwork.
* Careful quality control of input material, consistent record keeping, and attention to detail.
* The ability to organize and track samples across several projects at once.
*
* Preferred Qualifications:

*** Direct experience preparing sequencing libraries.
* Nucleic acid quality control through fluorescent quantification and automated electrophoresis, on a Fragment Analyzer, Bioanalyzer, Tape Station, or comparable instrument.
* Experience with sequencing library kits and automated liquid handling.  
** Other Requirements:
*** Platform-specific training on our nanopore instruments and quality control workflow will be provided.
* This position is funded through grants or contracts.…