Research Assistant III / eDNA Lab Technician
University of Montana & US Forest Service
Missoula, Montana
| Job Type | Temporary |
| Salary | $20.54 per hour |
| Benefits | Benefits Include: Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program. |
| Deadline | Jun 14, 2026 |
| Min. Experience | 0 - 1 year |
This position is co-located with the University of Montana and the US Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station's National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation eDNA Program in Missoula, MT.
The W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation invites applications for a Research Assistant III to work with biologists at state and federal agencies, tribes, universities, and/or non-governmental groups across the United States on projects that use environmental DNA (eDNA) to assess the presence and distribution of aquatic species. The person in this position will be responsible for processing eDNA samples for projects related to fish and/or wildlife conservation.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
- Complete laboratory preparations and analyses.
- Independently extract eDNA from filters and perform quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis.
- Independently QAQC eDNA datasets and analyses of data.
- Examine and evaluate eDNA procedures, protocols, and equipment to address unusual results and amend experiments as needed.
- Sterilizing laboratory equipment and supplies to maintain a clean and safe working environment.
- Washing and sterilizing glassware, utensils, and other lab tools to ensure accurate and contamination-free experiments.
- Stay up to date on peer reviewed publication related to eDNA assays so as to better inform techniques and interpretation of results.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School diploma and two (2) years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience in laboratory settings.
- Ability to work both independently and with a collaborative team.
- Effective communication skills.
- Computer skills for field-based data collection and desktops.
- Demonstrated ability to complete the necessary lab processes.
- Understanding of laboratory preparation procedures.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to follow protocols and maintain a clean and sterile working environment.
- Ability work with large datasets.
- Knowledge of basic statistics.
Preferred Qualifications
- B.S. in Biology, Wildlife Biology, or related fields, coursework involving molecular biology and/or genetics.
- Six (6) or more months working in laboratory setting.
- Experience working with genetic data.
Additional Information
Compensation Title: Research Assistant III
Union: None
Work Schedule: Full-time, 1.0 FTE (40 Hours a week), Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, 12 months/year
Probationary Period: Six (6) months minimum
Benefits Include: Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.
A complete application includes:
- Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as “Dear Search Committee” or “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
- Detailed Resume – listing education and describing work experience
- Three (3) Professional References – names and contact information
Must be eligible to work in the United States upon hire. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.
| Category | Ecology , Forestry |
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