About UMass Amherst
UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.
Job Summary
Conducts laboratory testing and experimentation procedures in support of research and service activities in the Laboratory of Medical Zoology (LMZ). The incumbent must have ability to work independently and as part of a team of students and technicians to meet demands of high throughput service laboratory and contribute to finding workable solutions to challenges as they arise.
Essential Functions
Examples of duties:
- Perform all duties in compliance with the current QA/QC plan and standard SOPs.
- In-processing of sample specimens
- Process tick specimens from a variety of public and agency sources.
- DNA Extraction
- qPCR testing
- Conduct molecular diagnostics (conventional PCR, qPCR, sequencing and genotyping) of prepared samples.
- Report results to clients and agencies. and participate in maintenance/curating of database.
- Perform general maintenance and operational duties.
- Participate in routine lab cleaning and maintenance (glassware, instrument service, ordering, etc.).
- Order laboratory stocks (chemistry, disposable plastic wear, etc.).
Other Functions
- Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equality and inclusiveness.
- Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by Director of Laboratory Operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- B.S. in Biology or related field (eg. Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Public Health, or other), or an equivalent combination of education and training.
- Minimum of one year lab experience required.
Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Experience with whole nucleic extractions and PCR/qPCR.
- General knowledge of biology, particularly molecular biology (hands on experience preferred but not necessary).
- Strong communication skills (written and spoken word) are essential.
- Trouble shooting and problem-solving ability.
- Willingness to accept instruction and adapt to circumstances as they arise.
- Good organizational and record keeping skills.
- Familiarity with spreadsheets and/or database software.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
Typical lab environment.
Work Schedule
- Monday – Friday.
- 9:00am – 5:00pm.
Salary Information
$18-24 per hour.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please submit letter of application, resume and contact information for three (3) references.
As part of a commitment to their own multicultural community, CNS seeks an individual with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and one who will understand and embrace university initiatives and aspirations. (https://www.cns.umass.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion)
UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.