Research Technologist 2

Job Description

POSITION PURPOSE

This role will be fully laboratory based and will maintain the current transgenic stocks of mosquitoes and flies in the Laursen laboratory, as well as perform molecular biological assays for verifying the integrity of stocks and for creating regents for generating new strains. The post holder will be accountable for ensuring mosquitoes are continuously available in sufficient supply and quality for Laursen lab activities and will assist with behavioral assays and physiological recordings using these animals.

POSITION COMPLEXITIES AND IMPACT

The position will require maintaining unique insect strains, genotyping, and providing insects to researchers for experiments. This impacts daily lab function and is essential for a properly functioning lab. The position will be essential to generating new mosquito lines for biological research and for conducting behavioral experiments on mosquito lines. Resulting data will be used in the publication of papers.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintenance of mosquito strains, insectary and data collection 60%

• Mosquito husbandry-setting up genetic crosses and screening

• PCR

• Responsible for the supply flow through of mosquitoes to Laursen Lab, highlighting any issues immediately to Laursen lab members.

• Ensure mosquito stocks are healthy, screened, and refreshed on timely basis.

• Actively participate in the insectary review meeting and ensure all data has been collated and is available for review at this meeting.

• Make process improvement suggestions as necessary to improve flow and efficiency of behavioral data collection and insectary maintenance

• Assist with the supervision and training of undergraduates.

• Prepare and maintain adequate laboratory records, including risk assessments

• Implement and adapt behavioral protocols and insect preparations.

• Plan and organize resources for the smooth running of the laboratory

Research 20%

• Behavioral assays

• Molecular cloning

• Transgenesis

Lab administration 20%

• Ordering and Inventory-Overseeing maintenance of supplies and equipment

• Scheduling lab meetings and functions

General: 

• Responsible for working safely, adhering to UW EH&S guidelines and BSL2/ACL2 guidelines.

• Prioritize, organize efficiently, work independently, and use own initiative to balance a busy workload.

• Participate in safety and training sessions as required to enhance and up-date skills to maintain the insectary and associated experimental datasets.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in STEM or related field, PLUS one year of research experience equivalent to Research Technologist I OR one year of full-time post-baccalaureate college in an appropriate field of science or technology.

Additional Requirements

• Professional level experience may be substituted, year-for-year, for the formal academic degree.

• The announcement of position vacancy (recruiting bulletin) may specify course work or experience within a specific discipline if determined necessary by the personnel officer.

• Training or experience within a specific discipline will be required to meet the unique requirements of individual positions.

• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience rearing mosquitoes or other insects

• Requires strong self-management, organizational skills, and ability to work independently as well as a member of a team.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at or  

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.