Research Engineering Scientist Associate IV, Center for Biomedical Research Support

Job Posting Title:

Research Engineering Scientist Associate IV, Center for Biomedical Research Support

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Hiring Department:

Center for Biomedical Research Support

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Exempt

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Earliest Start Date:

Immediately

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue

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Location:

AUSTIN, TX

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Job Details:

General Notes

The Center for Biomedical Research Support (CBRS) is a collection of 10 service centers that operates under the Vice President for Research, Scholarship and Creative Endeavors (OVPR) and broadly supports the research community on campus and externally. CBRS serves a central role across all of campus to provide access to cutting-edge technology, expert advice, and centralized services. CBRS is comprised of core facilities including Biomedical Imaging, Bioinformatics, Biological Mass Spectrometry, Biomedical Research Computing, Cryo-EM imaging, Genome Sequencing, Microscopy/Flow Cytometry and Mouse Genetic Engineering. In addition, CBRS provides laboratory support in the forms of stockrooms, electronics repair, and external services drop boxes.

UT Austin offers a competitive benefits package that includes:  

• 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage  

• Retirement contributions

• Paid vacation and sick time

• Paid holidays

Please visit our Human Resources (HR) website to learn more about the total benefits offered.

Purpose

The Genomic Sequencing and Analysis Facility is a full-service sequencing core offering services to researchers on campus ranging from genomics, spatial transcriptomics, and methylation array services.  The selected scientist will be responsible for planning and executing complex bench experiments, development of new services and heavily supporting researchers through project planning.

Responsibilities

• Execute laboratory protocols without error according to manufacturer or published protocols including detailed documentation of work performed.  Report to the director and work closely with technical NGS staff to fulfill single cell and spatial projects.  Maintain accurate documentation of projects and manage inventory of reagents. Job duties will include performing single cell experiments using 10X and Parse single cell applications and onboarding new single cell technologies. In addition, performing spatial transcriptomic projects using the 10X CytAssist and Xemium platform. Occasionally running Illumina EPIC methylation arrays. Duties will also include bringing on new services, working with vendors to onboard new services, testing new products, train staff on new protocols, write detailed SOPs for the facility and assisting with creating a pricing structure for these new services. Duties will include successfully executing all next generation sequencing library preparation protocols and necessary quality control assays.

• Work closely with researchers to plan experimental details of projects. Provide guidance on sample submission requirements and recommendations for executing successful projects. Communicate project details, preparation of technical reports upon the completion of experiments detailing results. Required to process and analyze data through vendor software or necessary third-party packages. Host short courses to researchers on best practices for single cell and spatial application to ensure successful projects.

• Manage and maintain equipment necessary to perform single cell and spatial work. Work closely with vendors to ensure preventive maintenance schedules are followed, keep detailed documentation of necessary maintenance performed. Create SOP’s for standard laboratory procedures, assist with maintaining laboratory spaces to ensure lab is meeting environmental health and safety requirements. Assist with inventory of supplies and lab maintenance.

• Stay up to date on emerging technologies, make recommendations for new technology investments or services the facility should adopt.  

Required Qualifications

• PhD with at least 2 years of relevant experience, master’s degree with at least 4 years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree with at least 6 years of relevant experience. 

• Hands-on molecular biology experience preparing libraries for next generation sequencing with an emphasis on Illumina tec