Research Associate (Environmental DNA Lab Technician)

• Conduct eDNA laboratory procedures, including sample collection and filtration, DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR amplification, and potentially library preparation for high-throughput sequencing to generate metabarcoding eDNA data.
• Accurately track and manage samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or equivalent data management tools.
• Follow and help maintain standard operating procedures in alignment with Department of the Interior guidelines and Molecular Lab Network protocols.
• Assist in quality control assessments of molecular data and ensure accurate documentation of results and lab activities.
• Participate in bioinformatic preprocessing and analysis of sequencing data.
• Collaborate with team members to support field sampling and sample intake.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, presentations, and manuscripts as appropriate.
• Maintain rigorous contamination control by adhering to clean laboratory protocols.
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and cleanliness.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of eDNA research.

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

• Molecular Laboratory Experience: Prior work in a molecular biology laboratory, including adherence to standard laboratory safety and contamination-prevention protocols.
• eDNA Workflow Knowledge: Familiarity with key eDNA workflow steps, encompassing sample filtration and extraction, PCR amplification, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).
• Laboratory Documentation: Ability to maintain detailed laboratory records and follow established standard operating procedures.
• Quality Control Awareness: Basic understanding of data quality control measures in molecular workflows.

• Molecular Laboratory Techniques: Proficient in using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and performing standard molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, and quantitative PCR.
• Attention to Detail & Standard Operating Policy Compliance: Meticulous record-keeping skills and the ability to follow standard operating procedures established by the U.S. Department of the Interior, supporting the Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) Framework and the Molecular Lab Network (MLN).
• Genomics Research Support: Experience in laboratory aspects of genomics research, including primer design, mitochondrial genome assembly, and sequence data analysis for target genes and metabarcoding datasets.
• Scientific Literacy: Understanding of relevant scientific disciplines (e.g., conservation genetics, ecology, molecular biology) to support informed decision-making.
• eDNA Laboratory Experience: Previous hands-on experience working in an eDNA laboratory setting.

• Cover Letter

Auburn University