3 positions available

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Position: Sequencing library preparation and quality control supporting the laboratory's molecular detection and biosurveillance projects.

 

Position summary: Prepare 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.

 

Key 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, TapeStation, 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.

 

Education: Bachelor's or master's degree in a life science, chemistry, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

 

Required qualifications:

• 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, TapeStation, or comparable instrument.

• Experience with sequencing library kits and automated liquid handling.

Platform-specific training on our nanopore instruments and quality control workflow will be provided.

 

Appointment terms: Full-time position, renewable contingent on performance and funding availability. Appointment at the Research Specialist I or Research Specialist II level will be determined by education and prior laboratory experience. Anticipated start date: Sep 2026

 

Supervision: This position will be supervised by Dr. Sapna Dass. The research specialist will work closely with the laboratory's postdoctoral researchers and other research staff, who will provide protocol training and technical guidance on project benchwork, together with day-to-day guidance from the laboratory's research coordinator (Nick Monday) and lab manager (Makenzie Bengs).

 

Salary and benefits: Salary commensurate with experience and consistent with Texas A&M AgriLife Research guidelines.

 

Contact and how to apply:

• Applicants may direct questions about the position to Dr. Sapna Dass at sapna.dass@ag.tamu.edu.

• To apply, submit a single PDF to the same address containing:

  • A cover letter describing your laboratory experience and fit for the position

  • A curriculum vitae or resume

  • Contact information for three professional references

• Use the subject line: Molecular Biology - Research Specialist- [Last Name]