Academic Hourly - Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory

Academic Hourly - Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

College of Veterinary Medicine

This is a part-time diagnostic research lab technician in the Wildlife Epidemiology Lab (WEL), a research lab. Primary responsibilities will be performance of molecular-based assays for detection of diseases in animals. This will include, but not limited to, PCR and quantitative PCR assay set-up, DNA and RNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, sample preparation for DNA sequencing, plasmid development, spectrophotometry, and assay calibration.

• Perform DNA/RNA extractions of submissions to VDL in Wildlife Epidemiology Lab
• Perform conventional and quantitative PCRs following established SOPs
• Analyze DNA/RNA extracts for quality and quantity using spectrophotometry
• Develop and validate new techniques or modify existing techniques for use in diagnostic tests in VDL
• Develop PCR-based plasmid positive controls following established protocols and develop skills for cell culture that support disease diagnosis in concurrent samples.
• Maintain clean and tidy workspace in WEL and assists in the washing, preparation, and sterilization of necessary glassware
• Maintain log of diagnostic samples received and reporting of test results for WEL. Maintain and order sufficient inventory of necessary supplies to perform diagnostic assays
• Maintain and order sufficient inventory of necessary supplies to perform diagnostic assays
• Assist in the implementation of QA/QC requirements
• Performs other duties as assigned

Allergies to hay, straw or animal dander may cause discomfort based on the location within the College of Veterinary Medicine.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree is Molecular Biology or a related field.

EXPERIENCE:

Familiarity with techniques in molecular diagnostics.

EXPERIENCE:

At least 2 years of experience in a laboratory diagnostics

• Spreadsheet software (Excel) and document software (Word) required
• Filemaker, VADDS, Familiarity with techniques in molecular biology or epidemiology preferred

This is a part-time Academic Hourly position.. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 8/21/2026. The hourly wage for this position is $17.00.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits.

• Health
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• a Retirement Plan
• Paid time Off
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation.

Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal , or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at , option #1, or accessibility .

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