Position Available: Laboratory Technician at CORE Operating Research Entities (CORE)

July 25, 2024 Funding Opportunities

Title: Laboratory Technician I

Department: Coordinated Operating Research Entities (CORE)

Reports To: Environmental DNA Lab Coordinator 

Purpose:

The University of Maine’s Coordinated Operating Research Entities (CORE) seeks to hire a Laboratory Technician for the Sequencing Facilities and Freezer Program. The Laboratory Technician supports the mission of CORE by performing analyses in the UMaine Sequencing Facilities, which provides fee-based services related to genetics sequencing and environmental DNA testing to the UMS research and educational community, as well as external stakeholders.  The Laboratory Technician will also assist with the UMaine Freezer Program, which provides administrative support in the procurement of genetics/biochemistry-related laboratory chemicals and supplies for the UMS research community.  

Essential Functions:

  • Operate and maintain genetic analysis instrumentation and related equipment to perform DNA sequencing, as well as maintain chemical and equipment inventories
  • Conduct lab work related to client sample processing including DNA extraction, purification, and preparation. 
  • Document all experimental procedures related to sequencing and processing activities as well as maintain current standard operating procedures (SOP) for all laboratory work and work with the supervisor to develop new SOPs as needed.
  • Work with the Lab Coordinator to arrange for sample delivery, determine needed services, and communicate results
  • Coordinate pick-up of products ordered via the Freezer program for on-campus clients. 
  • Provide support to procure chemicals, kits, and other consumables for UM researchers through the Freezer Program, accept and coordinate deliveries, keep records of orders and purchases, and coordinate billing with UM Procurement Services and applicable financial coordinators
  • Assist with day-to-day operations in the CORE Sequencing Facilities as needed

Knowledge and Skill Requirements:

Required: 

  • BS/BA degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or other related discipline
  • Demonstrated experience with the theory and implementation of practices within the DNA sequencing workflow 
  • Experience with wet lab molecular biology techniques and using basic lab equipment.
  • Capacity to perform under pressure in a fast-paced production environment
  • Must be organized, flexible, and pay great attention to detail
  • PC-based computer literacy, including in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly master other programs used in the daily lab processes
  • Experience in customer service and the ability to communicate complex issues to all types of constituents.

Preferred:

  • Prior professional experience in a laboratory that performs Sanger sequencing
  • Prior experience with the use and maintenance of an ABI 3730xl DNA sequencer

Work Environment:

The primary site of work will be on-campus facilities at the University of Maine. 

Work Schedule:

Normal University of Maine business hours are Monday through Friday; 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. 20 hour week schedule can be determined by semester to fit within these hours.

Position Type:

Graduate Assistantship; 20 hours/week

Compensation:

Master’s Degree Stipend: $1,888.89/mos., Doctoral Student Stipend: $2,222.22/mos., up to 6 credits for spring and fall each, and 50% of GA health insurance


Performance Evaluation Schedule:

Performance evaluation will be conducted annually 

Appropriate background checks are required.

All UMS employees are required to comply with applicable policies and procedures, as well as to complete applicable workplace-related screenings, and required employee training, such as Information Security, Safety Training, Workplace Violence, and Sexual Harassment. 

TO APPLY: Please email your application materials and any questions to Megan Tardif at megan.tardif@maine.edu