Research Scientist​/Engineer Assistant - Department of Global Health; Temporary

The Department of Global Health invites applications for a temporary Research Scientist/Engineer Assistant (RSEA). Reporting to the Director, Chlamydia Lab & Neisseria Reference Lab, the RSEA will conduct culture‑based surveillance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including species identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing using standardized laboratory methods. The role includes molecular detection and characterization of STI pathogens via PCR, sequencing, and automated diagnostic platforms.

Support of laboratory operations, quality assurance, and collaborative activities will also be required.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae antimicrobial resistance surveillance (80%)

• Conduct Neisseria gonorrhoeae culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing by agar dilution and Etest following established protocols.
• Perform species confirmatory tests for Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• Participate in and support quality assessment and continuous laboratory improvement activities.
• Participate in lab meetings and network with coworkers and collaborators.
• General laboratory maintenance including cleaning of glassware, temperature logs/charts of laboratory equipment, preparing reagents and chemical solutions, freezer organization and inventory of isolates, shipment of specimens.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Molecular detection and characterization of STI pathogens (20%)

• Molecular detection of STI pathogens using the fully automated Hologic Panther System.
• Purification of high molecular weight genomic DNA for Next Generation Sequencing.
• PCR and sequencing of PCR products for strain subtyping and characterization of antibiotic resistance determinants.
• Participate in diagnostic test validation and optimization of new test methods.
• Data processing and analysis using Excel and bioinformatics software.
• Contribute data for use in publications or conference presentations.

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology or a related scientific field (e.g., Molecular Biology or Biochemistry) and less than one year of relevant experience.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Additional qualifications:

• Complete required training and maintain proficiency in antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular testing, including routine blind sample panels and external proficiency testing participation.
• Apply strong microbiology expertise and general laboratory knowledge while maintaining a high level of organization, accuracy, and attention to detail.
• Work independently with accountability while effectively communicating and collaborating with supervisors and laboratory team members.

• Excellent molecular biology laboratory skills.
• Depth of expertise in gram‑stain, microscopy, qPCR, and nucleic acid amplification testing.
• Experience in antimicrobial susceptibility testing by Etest and/or agar dilution.
• Experience performing APTIMA nucleic acid amplification test.
• Experience with PCR testing methods and sequencing technologies.
• Good laboratory practice (GLP) skills.
• Experience working in a clinical or research environment.
• Bacteriology and molecular biology research experience.
• Research experience with real‑time PCR and traditional PCR techniques.
• Professional, flexible, and hardworking with a strong attention to detail and ability to organize and maintain accurate records.

• Position holds critical/essential staff designation and requires reporting to work when scheduled despite inclement weather.
• Requires flexibility in work hours, including extension into the evening when processing of specimens and research deadlines mandate, and on occasion requires working outside the standard work week.

Pay Range Minimum: $52,692.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum: $57,000.00 annual

Shift: First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary position, 100.00% FTE

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. It is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.