The School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington has created a new shared genetics lab directed by Dr. Laura Prugh. We seek an experienced individual to help get the lab up and running, supervise and train lab users, and to carry out noninvasive genotyping projects. Current projects include studies of interactions among a variety of carnivores (wolves, cougars, coyotes, foxes, bobcats, fishers) and ungulates in Alaska and Washington using DNA obtained from scats, puncture wounds, and snow tracks. Other users of the lab may work on varied projects, including those focused on soils, plants, or other wildlife. We are currently setting up the lab with new equipment, including a droplet digital PCR system that will facilitate cutting edge eDNA work. The lab manager will work independently to arrange equipment, purchase supplies, train and supervise graduate and undergraduate students while in the lab, run genetic analyses, and lead or contribute to publications. The lab manager will be fully integrated into the Prugh lab wildlife ecology research group, with the possibility of assisting with projects outside the lab (e.g., fieldwork). For more information about what we do, see http://www.prughlab.com/.
The lab manager will be hired as a full time Research Scientist, at a starting salary of $3600/month with full benefits. Funds are available for at least one year, and the position could be extended pending successful grant proposals. Ideal start date is early January 2017. Responsibilities and Tasks: • Non-invasive genotyping, extracting and amplifying DNA from hair and fecal samples of wild carnivores • Optimization of PCR protocols • mtDNA and microsatellite analyses for species and individual ID • Use of software such as Genemapper to score alleles • Generation of consensus genotypes from repeated PCR runs • Estimation of genotyping error rates • Purchasing supplies • Training graduate and undergraduate students • Managing use of lab • Assistance with manuscript preparation (with potential for authorship and co-authorship) Minimum requirements: Bachelor's Degree in an appropriate field of technology or science, plus at least one year of research experience. Proficiency with fecal genotyping and individual identification from microsatellites is required. Desired qualifications: Master's Degree in an appropriate field of technology or science with at least one year of research experience. Previous supervisory and managerial experience is desirable. Experience with eDNA work would be beneficial. To apply: Please email a cover letter summarizing your interests and qualifications, your cv, and contact information for 3 references in a single pdf to [email protected]. Position is open until filled. To ensure full consideration, submit your materials by Dec 31, 2016.
