O'Connor Lab Research Specialist

Research Specialist

We are seeking a Research Specialist to join our expanding team monitoring viruses in air and wastewater samples. The position involves primarily collecting air samples, extracting nucleic acids, and testing for viral pathogens. Similar processing of nasal swabs may also occur. Samples are collected at locations within the local community as well as at domestic and international partner sites that are building out their own air sampling programs.

We have many ongoing projects, but our overarching goal is to use air sampling to provide better awareness of common and emerging respiratory illnesses in diverse types of congregate indoor spaces.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the principal investigators and senior lab scientists, alongside a team of undergraduate researchers and research specialists. In the laboratory, the person in this specific role will be responsible for receiving and processing samples that require immediate pathogen testing with point-of-care tools, followed by communicating the results to stakeholders. In addition, they will contribute to the larger team who process routine air samples and nasal swab samples for nucleic acid extraction.

They may also perform multiplex PCR or metagenomics assays to determine which respiratory pathogens are present. They will also perform routine laboratory maintenance and quality control procedures to ensure data integrity and equipment functionality. These responsibilities require attention to detail and strict adherence to established protocols for sample handling and processing.

Beyond processing the immediate samples, they will contribute to the larger team who processes thousands of samples through multi-step workflows, help maintain timelines and deliverables for the program, analyze data, prepare results for publication and distribution to project partners, and maintain rigorous records and documentation. This role provides exposure to the full research pipeline, from sample collection through scientific publication, and the ideal candidate will thrive doing full-time work at the bench.

Regular work with human clinical swab samples is possible. This is not a hybrid or remote position.

• This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.
• Must provide a valid driver's license. Employees may use their own transportation or receive approval for University Car Fleet usage. Employment is conditional pending the results of a Pre-hire Driver Authorization Check.

• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• Performs literature reviews and writes reports
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• Optimize workflows to ensure rapid turnaround of air sampling data for sites requiring immediate feedback
• Support other lab projects, as needed

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, O'Connor Lab

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is dedicated to the highest quality patient care, cutting-edge and impactful research, and teaching the next generation of pathologists and scientists. We emphasize a healthy work-life balance and provide a supportive work environment committed to the growth and advancement of our members. Our vibrant clinical department integrates anatomic pathology, laboratory medicine, teaching, and a robust research enterprise, and serves the UW, American Family Children's, VA, and other Madison hospitals.

Our basic science and translational research programs have made fundamental discoveries in cell and stem cell biology, immunology, neuroscience, and infectious disease. Opportunities in education include a T32-funded PhD graduate program, pathology resident and fellowship programs, and both medical school and undergraduate curricula.

Madison, often rated as one of the best places to live in America, is built on an isthmus, surrounded by lakes. The city, campus, green spaces and urban areas are blended to create a place unlike any other.

• The starting salary for the position is $63,697 annually; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

• Experience in designing and…