Molecular Laboratory Technician

About the role

As a Molecular Laboratory Technician, you'll be at the forefront of insect genomics research, working with a collection of 10+ million specimens. Your expertise will be crucial in extracting and analyzing DNA from historical samples, supporting phylogenetic studies, taxonomic revisions, and species identifications. You'll collaborate with a diverse team of researchers, taxonomists, and bioinformaticians, contributing to multidisciplinary projects that push the boundaries of our understanding of insect biodiversity. 

Key responsibilities: 

• Support insect systematics research and curation through molecular lab work involving protocol development, troubleshooting, DNA extraction, and library preparation for sequencing
• Collection genomics, dealing with historical DNA. DNA sequences support phylogenetic studies, taxonomic revisions, species identifications, and collection curation
• Contributing to multi-disciplinary teams, developing and communicating ideas, presenting work, co-authoring publications, and participating in grant applications.
• Operate advanced equipment such as robotic platforms, multi-channel pipettes, and MinION sequencers 
• Maintain meticulous records using electronic lab notebooks and a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) 
• Train and mentor less experienced users in laboratory techniques and safety procedures
• Perform DNA/RNA extractions, DNA barcoding, and build whole genome sequencing libraries
• Conduct hybrid target capture reactions and manage confidential projects 
• Manage lab orders and expenses

What we're looking for: 

• A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in molecular genomics or molecular biology 
• Practical expertise in current molecular genetics techniques, including Illumina library preparation 
• Experience in troubleshooting laboratory protocols and operating complex technical equipment 
• Proven ability to process large numbers of samples reliably and efficiently 
• Strong teamwork skills balanced with the ability to work independently 
• Experience with historical DNA lab work and hybrid target capture (desirable) 
• Proficiency in lab automation and Oxford Nanopore technology (desirable) 
• Familiarity with LIMS/ELN systems and basic bioinformatics/data analysis (desirable)