Research Scientist​/Engineer

Research Scientist/Engineer 2 - University of Washington# Careers at UW## Research Scientist/Engineer 2

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Seattle, WA:
Full time:
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End Date:
November 13, 2026 (13 days left to apply):
REQ
- ** Job Description
**** The Department of Biology has an outstanding opportunity for Research Scientist 2 to join their team.
**** About this Opportunity
** Reporting to Dr. Samuel Wasser, the Research Scientist 2 is responsible for conducting DNA-based benchwork, data analysis and project documentation. The Wasser Lab will also be increasing our emphasis on Next Generation Sequencing over time.
** Key Responsibilities
** Research/lab work. (60%)
* DNA extraction of low template DNA, including fecal, hair, pangolin scales and ivory samples, as well as tissue and blood, in high throughput 96-well plate format
* Conduct PCR for fragment analysis and amplicon sequencing library prep in high throughput 384-well plate format.
* DNA quantification using fluorometers such as Qubit and Tape Station
* Troubleshooting or optimizing lab protocols

Maintaining and organizing sample inventories. (20%)
* Maintain clear and concise records of laboratory work with a focus on maintaining chain of custody of forensic samples.
* Adherence to quality control, record keeping, organization and documentation of projects.
* Consolidate and prepare samples and resulting products for long-term storage.

Data analysis. (10%)
* Conduct DNA sequence assembly of mtDNA (Se quencher), allele calling of STRs (Gene Marker), and analysis of Illumina sequencing data (OBITools, QIME2, etc.)
* Data management and data visualization

Other tasks. (10%)
* Train and supervise undergraduate students.
* Maintain clear and concise lab notes.
* Maintain and organize sample inventories, lab cleanliness, and general lab maintenance.
* Purchase supplies and monitor inventory.
* Contribute to manuscript preparation (with potential for authorship and co-authorship).
** Required Qualifications
** To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
** Minimum Qualifications
*** Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field
* Two years of experience with DNA-based benchwork (DNA extraction, PCR, Bead-cleans, DNA quantifications or relevant experience) and experience working with large data sets and high-throughput DNA analyses is required.
* ** Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.
**** Additional Qualifications
*** Able to work collaboratively within a team environment as well as independently perform key functions of this role.
* Excellent communication both written and verbal.
* Excellent organizational skills with emphasis on accurate data reporting and analysis.
* Ability to grasp new processes and develop proficiency in new areas of DNA analysis as required in lab activities tied to the Center’s core programs and deliverables.
** Preferred Qualifications
*** Experience with MiSeq amplicon sequencing, R/Python/Bash programming and kinship analysis highly desired.
* Experience with chain of custody, low-template samples, clean technique, and forensic procedures strongly preferred.
* Experience with data management.
** Working Conditions
*** Must have valid driver's license and government issued passport for international and domestic travel.
** Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
**** Pay Range Minimum:**$68,736.00 annual
** Pay Range Maximum:**$71,412.00 annual
** Other Compensation:**
- ** Benefits:
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