Research Technician II at Rice University in Houston, Texas

Job Description:

Special Instructions to Applicants:

All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

Position Summary

Dr. Matt McCary's research group in the Department of BioSciences is looking to hire a Research Technician II in the field of ecology and evolutionary biology. Dr. McCary's research group investigates the fundamental drivers and consequences of human-induced disturbances on ecosystems, with a particular interest in disentangling the relationship between soil biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

We are looking for a Research Technician II who will assist with the collection of field and lab data pertaining to ecology and molecular biology. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working outdoors and collecting plant and insect samples. The ideal candidate will also be comfortable processing plant and insect samples in the lab. One primary role of the candidate will be to extract genomic DNA from insect samples in the lab to be sequenced to analyze insect community composition. The ideal candidate will have a background in ecology, biology, or related disciplines and experience with laboratory methods including DNA extraction.

This is a one-year term-limited position with the possibility of renewal for multiple years based on performance and funding.

Workplace Requirements : This is an in-person at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Position may require occasional extended work hours (e.g. after 5:00 PM and/or weekends) in order to meet project deadlines. Additionally, this position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

*Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• Associates Degree
• 3 years in the area of ecology, biology, or related discipline
  
  
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
  • Related experience gained as an undergraduate student and/or through internships is acceptable.
  
  
• Must possess a valid U.S. driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire. Employees will be expected to drive personal vehicle and/or university owned, leased, or rented vehicle when traveling to research sites or performing university business. Miles and gas will be reimbursed for personal vehicle usage. Additionally, employees must remain compliant with university vehicle safety guidelines. Must be at least 21 years old to operate a company vehicle.

Skills

• Knowledge of DNA extractions, PCR, and relevant lab equipment
• Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet software, Microsoft Office Suite
• Basic math and research skills
• Good organization skills and strong attention to detail
• Ability to listen and communicate effectively (verbal, written)
• Ability to work independently and in team environments
• Ability to conduct basic evaluation and analysis of data
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards

Essential Functions

• Assists in conducting research and experiments
• Collects plant and insect samples from the field and processes samples in the lab
• Extracts genomic DNA from insect samples in the lab to be sequenced to analyze insect community composition
• Collects and tracks basic data using spreadsheets and database
• Assists in the laboratory setup and day-to-day technical operations including promoting safety, maintaining equipment, creating kits, and preparing reagents
• Prepares procurement requests and orders materials and supplies, manages sample and stock database, sets up and manages experiments, and maintains research results for publications
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

About Us

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Rice University is ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

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