The anticipated hiring range for this position is $50,000 to $55,000. Hiring offers will be determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience. This is a full-time, exempt, fully benefitted, salaried position for two years, and it is renewable contingent upon successful performance and funding levels. The preferred start date is February of 2025.

Position Summary The Microbial Ecology and Soil Science (MESS) lab at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is searching for an individual to support molecular-based research across a variety of projects. The molecular lab technician will conduct and supervise research at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies campus in Millbrook, NY.

This position is aimed at individuals who are excited to perform and learn about microbial ecology, especially in the context of soil health and function, disease ecology and ecosystem science. Much of the work will include analyzing soil samples in a BSL2 level research lab with access to a biosafety cabinet and fume hood. There will be ample opportunities to perform metagenomics and qPCR analyses, as well as opportunities to develop metagenomic and targeted gene capture protocols. Depending on experience and interest, there will also be opportunities for the research technician to develop skills in soil nutrient cycling, including gas analyses, enzyme assays and stable isotope work. In the near term, the primary research aims will be to support a collaborative project between Drs. Lucas and Han, exploring the interplay between environmental characteristics and the prevalence of pathogenic Leptospirosis. Additionally, the individual will support work looking at global change effects on soil communities across agricultural and tropical landscapes.

Essential Responsibilities Field

• Conduct field-based measurements related to soil and nutrient cycles
• Travel to field sites to collect and record data and/or samples as appropriate

Lab

• Perform microbial DNA extraction and sequencing protocols
• Set up, calibrate and maintain laboratory and/or field research equipment, as specified by the requirements of the study

Analytical and Organizational

• Coordinate with Cary field managers, local management agencies and laboratory staff on planned projects
• Collect and analyze data and maintain accurate records
• Request or acquire equipment or supplies necessary for the projects and track purchases
• Prepare progress reports, summarize project results, assist with preparation of evaluation reports, write methods for publication, and prepare applications for research permits
• Review and edit data to ensure completeness and accuracy of information
• Lead or guide the work of student employees
• Prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management
• Develop and update research protocols
• Track progress over time
• Communicate about work progress, laboratory needs and policies at weekly meetings, train lab members on safety policies, laboratory protocols, and data analysis

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (BS or BA) or equivalent and 0-3 years of experience in microbial ecology, microbiology, ecology or in a related area.
• U.S. Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters in ecology, soil science or related field
• 1-3 years of experience working in a molecular laboratory setting
• Experience prepping samples for metagenomic sequencing
• Bioinformatic pipeline experience for metagenomic analyses
• Experience with sequence-capture technique

Required Skills

• Technical skills in molecular work, including:
  • DNA extraction
• PCR
• qPCR
• Ability to follow protocols and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job, and the ability to aid in the development of lab standards.
• Attention to detail, strong problem-solving, training, and mentoring abilities
• Demonstrated experience with lab management, including reagent and supplies stock management, placing orders, and handling related invoicing
• Ability to work independently to establish and execute work priorities, and take initiative in pursuing activities that further project goals
• Ability to read, interpret and extract relevant information from the scientific literature
• Ability to maintain quality, safety and/or infection control standards
• Excellent time management skills: ability to plan, schedule, and keep regular meetings with Principal Investigators as well as undergraduate interns and lab staff

Closing Date: Position is open until filled.

The Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA) employer. It is the policy of the Institute to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, familial status, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.