The Zamudio Lab (zamudiolab.org) in the Department of Integrative Biology at UT Austin seeks a highly motivated and detail-oriented laboratory technician to play a key role in supporting the research operations of our lab. Our research focuses on understanding evolutionary processes driving phenotypic and genetic diversity in vertebrate systems, with a focus on reptiles and amphibians. The lab uses comparative and population genomics to investigate the genomic architecture of local adaptation, immune resistance to wildlife diseases, and other phenotypes. We also have projects studying sexual selection and mating systems, and conservation genomics of endangered species.
This position offers a unique opportunity to be involved in many research projects in the lab, contributing to cutting-edge research program that integrates ecological, evolutionary, and molecular approaches. We are a fun, equitable, and welcoming lab community.
This position will involve standard molecular biology techniques, culture techniques, experiments with animals in the lab and field, and general lab management. The job will also include data analysis, and opportunities for publishing research.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Establish/maintain operational protocols to ensure the lab is fully functional and equipped to conduct high-quality research. Place orders for equipment and consumables; reorder common-use consumables when they are running low; keep track of equipment maintenance schedules and arrange maintenance in timely fashion; organize repair/replacement of malfunctioning equipment; arrange proper waste disposal and pickup; defrost freezers as necessary; keep a catalog of orders; keep a catalog of items in freezers; ensure lab’s compliance with biosafety and fire codes.
• Use advanced molecular techniques to preserve and analyze samples, including RNA and DNA extraction to assess and compare gene regulation and sequences, library preps, and basic bioinformatic analyses. Collection of molecular lab data for lab projects. Prepare libraries for next-generation sequencing. Manage data submission, retrieval, storage.
• Train and supervise undergraduate assistants tasked with nucleic acids isolation; provide lab safety training for new lab members. Train and assist graduate students and post-docs with data protocols and collections.
• Assist in data analysis for research publication and related assignments.
• Assist with animal room maintenance and experimentation.
QUALIFICATIONS:
The successful applicant will have a B.S. or M.S. degree in Biology or related field. Experience in general molecular biology lab techniques RNA/DNA extractions and preparing libraries for next-generation sequencing for any of these methods: WGS, RAD (any flavor), RNA-seq, Tag-seq, Quantseq, MBD-seq, ME-dip, CHIP-seq, Nanopore. Demonstrated ability to carry out research, troubleshoot new protocols. Basic computer literacy. Good communication skills for interaction with lab members and documentation functions.
APPLICATION:
To apply, please submit i) a letter of interest, (ii) a full CV, and iii) contact information for three references. Review of applications will start February 1st, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. Start date is as early as March 2025, but negotiable.
The application link is here: https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/UT-MAIN-CAMPUS/Research-Engineering-Scientist-Associate-I_R_00037110
Inquiries about the position can be directed to Kelly Zamudio (kelly.zamudio@austin.utexas.edu).
Zamudio Lab 