Job Description

Job Summary
A Research Scientist position is available in the High Throughput Genomics Shared Resource at the University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute. The laboratory provides experimental expertise and services to researchers throughout the University of Utah for genomic applications that use the Illumina sequencing platform. The candidate should have attention to detail and meticulous work habits. The position requires strong molecular biology skills, experience operating Illumina sequencing and automation instruments, excellent communication skills and good time management. Providing instruction, interpreting experimental outcomes and communicating experimental progress with customers of the laboratory is an essential component of the job.

Huntsman Cancer Institute is committed to cancer prevention, care, and survivorship for all communities within the area we serve – which includes Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming – with impact worldwide.

In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional experiences have prepared you to serve as a member of our team as we work to reduce the cancer burden experienced by all people and communities. This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical care, community engagement/outreach, training, administration, or other areas relevant to Huntsman Cancer Institute’s mission and this position.
Responsibilities
Evaluate Illumina sequencing libraries by Qubit assays, Agilent TapeStation assays and qPCR.
Prepare sequencing libraries for diverse sample types including DNA, RNA, Exome, ChIP-seq, methyl-seq, metagenomics, CRISPR.
Prepare libraries for Single Cell sequencing and Spatial Profiling.
Normalize and pool Illumina libraries in preparation for sequencing.
Engage in the onboarding of new library protocols and design of custom applications.
Operate and maintain highly specialized sequencing instruments including Illumina NovaSeq, NextSeq and MiSeq,
Document Illumina sequence run performance and evaluate sequence run metrics reports.
Interface with technical support when necessary to troubleshoot instruments within the lab.
Communicate with and update customers on experimental progress
Provide consultation meetings with customers on projects that utilize the genomic services available through the High Throughput Genomics Resource.

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or other scientific discipline in a related field plus four years of experience or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.