Fisheries and Genetics Technician
Job Description: Genetic analysis of wildlife species is a powerful tool for assisting wildlife managers in making conservation decisions. Research focused on "conservation genetics" may include anything from analysis of water samples for DNA of rare species in order to understand distribution in a stream (i.e., eDNA), to looking at genetic diversity between populations to understand relatedness and overall population health. We are seeking a laboratory assistant to aid in analysis of genetic samples for projects related to aquatic wildlife conservation.
This full-time position will be 80-90% lab based with the remaining portion of time spent in the field. Primary responsibilities include organizing and cataloging samples, data entry, preparing sampling materials for field sampling, extracting DNA from tissue and eDNA samples, performing PCR analysis and gel electrophoresis, preparing samples for genetic sequencing and fragment analysis and working with genetic data in basic DNA alignment software. Field work will be limited and will occur primarily in the later summer and fall in streams of western Montana and Idaho. Data collection in the field will include collection of eDNA samples, electrofishing, measuring stream flow, and imaging fish with ultrasound.
This position is sponsored by The National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation at the U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station. Work will occur at Rocky Mountain Research Station building at the south end of the University of Montana campus. Scheduling is flexible, but most work will occur during USFS building hours: 8am-4:30pm, Mon-Fri.
Qualifications: This is an ideal position for someone who has completed their undergraduate degree and is looking to gain experience in genetics laboratory protocols, with long term goals of a career in conservation and wildlife or genetics based research. Applicants must have completed cellular/molecular biology, genetics or related course work and have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. Competitive applicants will be responsible, punctual, and able to communicate and work well with others. The individual must have attention to detail, must take detailed notes, and must be able to work an independent and efficient manner. Experience in laboratory procedures such as DNA extraction and PCR analysis are strongly preferred.
Wage: Starting wage $9-11 depending on experience; wage increases possible with exceptional performance.
Position start date and length: Start date is July 16th, 2018, with the possibility to start part-time work prior to this date. This position will begin as a 90-day term with the possibility of extended (long-term) employment based on performance.
Application instructions: Please e-mail Kellie Carim at kelliejcarim@fs.fed.us with a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications for the position, a resume or CV, academic transcripts and contact information for three references. Please submit these materials as PDF attachments to the e-mail. Applications will be accepted on or before May 15th, 2018, and will be considered as they are received.