JOB SUMMARYThe Center for Genome Innovation (CGI) within the Institute for Systems Genomics at the University of Connecticut, Storrs is looking for a Research Assistant 3 to join our team.The mission of the CGI is to facilitate genomics research for faculty and students across the University of Connecticut campuses by providing access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and expertise in genome technologies like Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), microfluidics and bead arrays. In addition to offering a variety of sample extraction, QC, library preparation, and sequencing services for many different applications, the CGI also provides hands-on training, on-site support and assessment of emerging technologies to add to our portfolio.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The primary role of the Research Assistant 3 position is to process both internal and external customer samples for a variety of genomics applications requiring advanced laboratory techniques for both DNA and RNA.The Research Assistant carries out research protocols as developed by the Scientific Director. The Research Assistant follows procedures exactly as outlined, ensuring the consistency of research practices and, ultimately, helping ensure the consistency and integrity of project outcomes. The Research Assistant communicates progress and promptly alerts supervisor(s) of any issues that arise. The Research Assistant must be able to adapt to modifications in protocol, changes in equipment or upgrades in software, as well as adjustments to the scope of research projects.Other duties include:

1. Represent the CGI at community outreach events and/or scientific conferences
2. Provide classroom/laboratory instruction for ISG educational initiatives
3. Independently test and modify established methods
4. Develop new procedures and biological applications
5. Maintain good working relationships with other staff, faculty, and students
6. Explain and demonstrate the scientific protocols currently being employed in the laboratory
7. Demonstrate and practice lab safety precautions
8. Attend annual safety courses required by UConn and other agencies
9. Maintain accurate records for protocols, samples, and data reporting
10. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the handling and maintenance of all lab equipment
11. Have a working knowledge of equipment operation manuals and procedure manuals
12. Support of the Director(s), in all administrative, operations, budget, business development, and strategic functions
13. Facilitate the documentation of and reporting to collaborators and clients, regarding research efforts; facilitate progress reports, manuscript submissions, and grants preparation

Center for Genome Innovations ExpectationsAs a Research Assistant in the CGI, this scientist will be expected to apply background and experience in molecular biology to the application of advanced laboratory techniques including RNA and DNA extraction from various tissue types, NGS library preparation, sample/library QC and sequencing on multiple platforms for varied experimental questions. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, enjoy working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team environment, and will possess knowledge of NGS sequencing technology. The Research Assistant will also be expected to record accurate and complete testing details and prepare reports for review by senior scientists or Director(s). This individual will be expected to exercise considerable initiative and inventiveness in planning and executing the details of experiments in a time-effective manner. The Research Assistant will read relevant scientific literature, remains up-to-date knowledge on research, industry, and/or clinical testing methodologies, confers with superiors and colleagues regarding new procedures, and modifes them according to the needs of the project.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Highly motivated, enthusiastic scientist with either a BS degree in molecular biology (or related area of study) and at least 4 years of relevant experience OR MS degree in molecular biology (or related area of study) and at least 3 years of relevant experience
• Experience with NGS library preparation and/or sequencing
• Familiarity with other NGS and library preparation methods
• In-depth understanding of the practices and principles of NGS and microarrays
• Maintains a high degree of organization, accuracy, and attention to detail while processing 96+ samples at a time
• Strong laboratory and instrumentation skills
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and troubleshoot experiments independently and with colleagues
• Communicates clearly
• Ability to enter and manipulate data within Microsoft Excel

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with cytogenetic molecular arrays
• Experience in a multi-disciplinary and/or translational research environment
• Genomics data analysis/computational pipelines/bioinformatics

APPOINTMENT TERMSThis is a full-time, 12-month position to start as soon as possible. This is an end-dated position, subject to renewal based upon funding, with an excellent benefits package including medical and retirement. Salary will be commensurate with experience.TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENTEmployment at the University of Connecticut is contingent upon the successful candidate’s compliance with the University’s Mandatory Workforce COVID-19 Vaccination Policy.  This Policy states that all workforce members are required to have or obtain a Covid-19 vaccination as a term and condition of employment at UConn, unless an exemption or deferral has been approved. Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.TO APPLYPlease apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #496096, to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Evaluation of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.For more information regarding the Center for Genome Innovation please visit the website at https://draft.genome.center.uconn.edu/.This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on March 13, 2022.All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University’s teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn’s ranking as one of the nation’s top research universities. UConn’s faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.