Friedrich Lab Research Specialist

Job Summary:
The successful candidate will assist in developing, planning, and executing large experiments, will have a strong academic background, and show exceptional eagerness and enthusiasm for translational science. They will operate, clean, and maintain organization of research equipment and research areas as well as track inventory levels and place replenishment orders. Day-to-day responsibilities will include obtaining samples for sequencing SARS-CoV-2, isolating nucleic acids from new and archived specimens, sequencing viral genomes obtained from these specimens, and interpreting sequencing data, as well as communicating results with collaborators and sponsors and sharing data publicly. Scientific creativity is valued in this position, as we need to adapt to the changing situations of SARS-CoV-2 transmission to identify potential sources for ongoing genomic surveillance and to interpret our findings to find trends in viral evolution and transmission.

The successful applicant will also be expected to assist in the preparation of data for publication purposes and participate in routine lab maintenance and other ongoing projects in Dr. Friedrich's laboratory as needed.

SVM is committed to being a diverse, equitable, inclusive and anti-racist workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer.
Responsibilities: Develops, designs, and conducts one or more research projects and organizes daily operation of projects and specialized research areas to ensure work meets established objectives under moderate supervision.

• 30% Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• 10% Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• 20% Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• 20% Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• 10% Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• 10% Performs literature reviews and writes reports

Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

For more information on diversity and inclusion on campus, please visit: Diversity and Inclusion
Education:
Required
Bachelor's Degreein immunology, virology, microbiology, or a related field.
Qualifications:
This position involves using DNA sequencing to understand SARS-CoV-2 transmission and evolution. The successful applicant will have experience with molecular biology techniques such as RT-PCR and sequencing. Because this position will involve tracking large numbers of samples and integrating many forms of data, strong informatics skills are important. Our project involves multidisciplinary collaborations with investigators at and beyond UW-Madison, so strong communication skills are necessary. One objective of our studies is understanding the impact of health disparities on SARS-CoV-2 evolution and transmission, so familiarity with approaches to quantifying and analyzing health inequalities would be valuable.

Working with the SARS-CoV-2 virus is an essential function of this position and it is strongly recommended that the successful applicant is vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 (may be completed upon hire) to reduce the risk of lab-acquired infection and transmission to. UW-Madison complies with all applicable health and safety regulations. Nevertheless, working with pathogens poses health risks. Applicants are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider about risks. UW-Madison will provide necessary personal protective equipment, but candidates must be willing to work with samples containing infectious SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other pathogens.
License/Certification:
Required
Drivers License - Valid and Meets UW Risk Management Standards
The applicant must possess a valid driver's license that meets standards of UW Risk Management Driving Authorization and Car Fleet eligibility requirements in order to transport samples to/from testing providers.
Work Type:
Full Time: 100%

It is anticipated this position requires work be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location.
Appointment Type, Duration:
Ongoing/Renewable
Salary:
Minimum $44,543 ANNUAL (12 months)
Depending on Qualifications
Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Benefits information can be found at (https://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/)
Additional Information:
The successful applicant will be responsible for ensuring eligibility for employment in the United States on or before the effective date of the appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position.
How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please click APPLY ONLINE to begin the process. You will be required to upload a cover letter, current CV, and a document listing the contact information for three professional references. For questions regarding the application process, please contact Karlin Passehl at: kjstalder@wisc.edu.
Contact:
Elena Ungur
elena.ungur@wisc.edu
608-263-5045
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.
Official Title:
Research Specialist(RE047)
Department(s):
A87-SCHOOL OF VET MEDICINE/PATHOBIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Employment Class:
Academic Staff-Renewable
Job Number:
305668-AS