Human Resources
Waller Hall, First Floor
Willamette University
900 State Street
Salem, Oregon 97301
503-370-6210 voice
503-370-6570 fax
Research Assistant / Lab Manager in Evolutionary Ecology - Department of Biology
As part of a research project funded by the National Science Foundation, the Research Assistant extracts DNA from plant and insect specimens, genotypes these using microsatellite DNA markers and DNA sequencing, records the methods used and experimental results. The Research Assistant will participate in field research, including assisting in the design and implementation of field experiments and travelling to field sites for several weeks. The Research Assistant analyzes experimental data using computer software packages for genetic and statistical analysis and graphing and assists in the preparation of material for publication. The Research Assistant manages and oversees day-to-day laboratory functions, including assisting undergraduates completing research in the Principal Investigator's laboratory, ordering laboratory equipment and supplies, arranging for repair of laboratory equipment, and maintaining a database of plant and insect collections and genomic DNA materials.
The Research Assistant plans and performs technical experiments that require training in certain basic laboratory skills. In addition, the Research Assistant manages the day-to-day operation of the laboratory in a way that maximizes the number of days dedicated to collection of research data while ensuring that the physical components and clerical operations of the laboratory are also maintained. Thus the position requires a degree of organizational skill and an ability to work independently with a minimal of supervision. The position requires a certain knowledge of University policies and procedures as well as strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills. Completion of job duties includes travel to field sites in the Mojave Desert (Nevada, California, and Arizona), and the completion of field experiment. Thus, the ability to live and work in semi-primitive conditions is required.
This is a full-time one year position which includes full benefits. Extension of this position is dependent upon continuation of funding.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Assistant include, but are not limited to, the following functions, which are not listed in any particular order of importance or significance:
Research Assistant:
1. Extracts genomic DNA from plant and insect tissues using DNA extraction kits and evaluates DNA concentrations and quality using a gel electorphoresis and spectrophotomtery.
2. Genotypes plant and insect samples using microsatellite genotyping by electrophoresis and analysis of electropherogram data.
3. Sequences DNA from samples using PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing with dye-labeled terminators.
4. Analyzes raw microsatellite and DNA sequence data using standard softwares, including Gene Mapper and CodonCode.
5. Participates in weekly lab meetings, including reading and discussing current scientific literature in the topics of coevolution, population genetics, plant ecology and pollination biology.
6. Assists in the analysis of data by statistical methods and graphs data for publication using computer software packages for statistics and graphing.
7. Assists in the preparation material for publication using Microsoft Word and Adobe Illustrator.
General Laboratory Management:
1. Maintains an inventory of laboratory equipment and supplies.
2. Orders laboratory equipment and supplies. Maintains record of grant expenditures.
3. After consultation with supervisor, arranges for repair of laboratory equipment.
4. Assists in the supervision of undergraduate research collaborators.
5. Assists in advising undergraduate students on the completion of independent research projects.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualification Standards
1. Bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry and substantial post-graduate experience are required. Experience beyond the undergraduate degree may be in the form of completion of some graduate work or significant work experience in a relevant field (including, but not limited to, population genetics, molecular systematics, ecology, evolution, botany, or entomology).
2. Previous experience and training in PCR and other molecular biology techniques is required. In addition, the ability to learn the use of new pieces of laboratory equipment and new laboratory techniques, protocols and methods is essential. Experience with microsatellite genotyping is highly desirable.
3. Laboratory research will involve exposure to mild chemical and physical hazards, including toxic substances and extremely cold materials. The applicant must therefore be familiar with, and agree to follow, basic laboratory safety guidelines.
4. The successful applicant must be capable of, and enthusiastic about, participating in field research. Participation in field research will require traveling to field sites up to for several weeks at a time. The research assistant must be able to walk over level ground for at least a mile, be able to climb a six-foot ladder, be able to lift 25 pounds, be able to lift equipment above his/her head and possess a valid US Driver's License. Experience driving 4-Wheel-Drive vehicles is desirable.
5. Ability to use computer software for word processing, statistical analysis, graphing, and maintenance of a database is required. The applicant must be willing to learn new programs if necessary. Must possess a basic working knowledge of the operation of Mac OSX AND Windows PC computer operating systems, and the use of Microsoft Office products.
6. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and written communication skills required. The successful applicant will be able to manage and direct undergraduate researchers.
7. Ability to deal with a variety of tasks under pressure of deadlines.
8. This position is subject to a criminal conviction record check.
9. Ability to work independently as well as establish and maintain harmonious relations with other staff, faculty and students.
10. Interests in ecology, coevolution, or undergraduate education are highly desirable.
Application Packet
All application materials must include the following information:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Three names of professional references with contact information [title, place of activity, mailing address, telephone number, e-mail address] who are readily accessible and would provide a letter of reference if requested to do so. Please indicate briefly how you have been associated with the referent.
- Confidential Applicant Information Form
How to Apply
Only complete packets will be reviewed by the screening committee. It is important that your application clearly indicate that you meet the minimum qualifications for the position. Please include enough relevant training and experience to demonstrate that you possess the minimum qualifications.
Electronic submission is strongly encouraged. Application material may be submitted in person, mailed, or faxed and must be received by the application deadline.
All submissions in support of the application should be addressed to:
Human Resources
Willamette University
900 State Street
Salem, OR 97301
Email: human-resources@willamette.edu
Fax: (503) 370-6570
Application Deadline
November 17, 2009. Please apply immediately. Desired start date is January 4, 2010.
*Our office hours are Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Believing that diversity contributes to academic excellence and to rich and rewarding communities, WU is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse faculty, staff and student body. We seek candidates, particularly those from historically under-represented groups, whose work furthers diversity and who bring to campus varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds.