Overview

The newly established Wildlife Eco-Epidemiology Lab in the Veterinary and Clinical Life Sciences Department at Utah State University, under the direction of Dr. Jessica Sanchez, is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant (Lab Technician III) to join our team.

Our work spans epidemiology, disease ecology, field biology, and wildlife conservation, with active projects that integrate field research, laboratory analysis, and data science. This is a unique opportunity for someone who wants to do more than just benchwork. Every day will look a little different, and initiative and adaptability will be highly valued.

The Research Assistant will manage laboratory operations and a specimen archive, assist with field work, maintain large databases, contribute to analyses and reports, and help establish safety protocols and SOPs.  Laboratory duties currently include DNA and RNA extractions from specimens and sample preparation for collaborating labs, but the position also offers the opportunity to help develop in-house molecular biology capacity such as molecular diagnostics and DNA barcoding. The ideal candidate is detail oriented, highly organized, collaborative, and willing to take on different aspects of projects as needed.

Current projects include an ongoing study of avian botulism in the Great Salt Lake, which may involve fieldwork and day trips to the area.  

U.S. Work Authorization is required. This job is not eligible for H1B sponsorship. A background check will be needed.

Annual (1.0 FTE): $43,000-45,333

0.75 is on-going; the remaining 0.25 FTE is contingent upon funding

1.0 FTE has been secured through June 30, 2027.

Responsibilities

The proportion of time spent in each job category will vary based on research project and laboratory needs.

Laboratory:

• Coordinate daily lab operations; set up, maintain, and monitor equipment.
• Maintain supply inventory and place orders as needed.
• Execute experiment plans and directives per instructions, including performing DNA and RNA extractions from wildlife and environmental samples.
• Catalog, organize, and preserve specimens; prepare and collect specimens as directed, including submissions to external laboratories
• May assist in developing and troubleshooting in-house molecular biology protocols.
• Maintain accurate records, including lab notebooks and sample inventories.
• Train and support students and collaborators in laboratory safety and equipment use; may oversee students during lab activities.
• Ensure compliance with biosafety and quality standards for BSL-2(+) laboratories.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized workspaces; coordinate repairs with outside personnel as needed.

Research:

• Assist with data collection, database design, management, and continuity across projects.
• Contribute to data cleaning, analysis, and wildlife disease surveillance projects.
• Assist with research proposals, permits, reports, and project deliverables.
• Support research activities of students and postdocs.
• May contribute to statistical analysis, data summaries, and manuscript preparation as directed.

Field:

• Expect occasional long workdays, including evenings and weekends.
• Support projects involving capture and sampling of live wildlife, sampling of deceased wildlife, environmental sampling, and survey design.

Other:

• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.