Marine Invertebrate Research Associate
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
Under general supervision, assist in field sampling of marine invertebrates via sorting, identifying, photography, subsampling and vouchering for Museums. Perform DNA extraction from a wide range of preserved and frozen marine invertebrate tissues. Amplify 'barcode' regions of DNA using PCR for these invertebrates as well as algae extractions provided from other laboratories. Prepare products for DNA barcoding using Sanger or alternative methods of sequencing (MinIon, Illumina) and troubleshoot technical issues to ensure high-quality results. Evaluate DNA sequence data, assess sequence identity, and assemble sequences using Geneious software. Submit barcode sequences to BOLD (with specimen images) and GenBank. Perform species delimitation analyses to guide choice of genome skimming targets. For next-generation sequencing (NGS) genome skimming, assess DNA quantity and amplify extractions (Genomiphi) if needed. Assist with genome skimming data for assembling mitochondrial genomes with annotation and nuclear loci such as 18S rRNA.Contribute to data interpretation for population genetic analyses, distribution maps, organize sequences, and maintain comprehensive tracking systems and databases. Coordinate with Museum collections on taxonomy and names of sequences and update databases as needed. Maintain laboratory supplies, manage orders and equipment servicing and act as Area Safety Coordinator.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences such as Biology, Marine Biology, Oceanography or a comparable discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master's degree preferred. Proficiency in DNA extraction from a variety of tissue types and assessment of sample quality. Experience in DNA quantification and analysis for sequencing readiness. Experience in PCR method and PCR products for various methods of DNA barcode sequencing. Experience in DNA barcode sequence assembly and analysis using Geneious or similar bioinformatics software and uploading to BOLD and GenBank. Theoretical knowledge and practice in analysis of DNA barcode sequence data. Experience in checking sequences using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) and other bioinformatic tools, with independent interpretation of results. Experience in species delimitation, construction of haplotype networks and making maps in R. Experience in preparing extractions for genome skimming, including DNA quantification and whole genome amplification. Knowledge and practice in next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis pipelines, particularly organelle genome assembly and annotation. Knowledge of area safety coordinator role and duties and the ability to maintain up-to-date records as required for the laboratory. Experience in ordering supplies for the laboratory via Oracle and the use of Concur. Strong ability to maintain accurate and organized records, including lab notebooks, spreadsheets, and database entries. Demonstrated ability to interact using tact and diplomacy with diverse personalities, including academic, staff, student, and volunteer employees and institutions/organizations. Ability to effectively communicate and interact with a variety of people from the public to governmental agencies.