Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Technician
The Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Core Facility at LJI is looking for a detail oriented Lab Technician to conduct NGS workflows. The successful candidate will deliver high quality data to internal and external researchers and perform duties in a reliable and reproducible manner. The NGS technician is responsible for processing multiple sample types for the complete NGS workflow, including RNA and DNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing.
Additional responsibilities include working with a core team of technicians in the operation and maintenance of equipment, including integrated robotics platforms. The ideal candidate will possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, be adaptable, and have the ability to muti-task.
Main Responsibilities
(Tech I, Tech II, Tech III)
- Nucleic acid extraction
- Library preparation
- Next Generation Sequencing
- Maintain detailed daily records in electronic notebooks
- Communicating regularly (via email and verbally) with users and customers
- Troubleshoot issues in all steps of the workflow as necessary; from sample receipt through data delivery (II level)
- Interpret library fragment shapes and sizes among different assays (cDNA, RNA, WGS, PCR-Free WGS, ATAC, histone CUTnRUN, Transcription factor CUTnRUN, ChIP Input, ChIP methylation, ChIP Acetylation etc)
- Plan experiments to optimize current protocols, or to add capabilities (II-III)
- Program robotic tools to automate protocols (II-III)
- Validate those automated protocols (II-III)
Preferred Skills
- Nucleic acid extraction and purification
- DNA and RNA library prep methods
- Quality control methods (BioAnalyzer, Qubit, Tapestation etc)
- Experience with labware handling
- Experience with Illumina, Qiagen, Agilent equipment desirable
- Working knowledge of PCR assays
- Ability to write and validate assay protocols and ability to advise users on assay development
- Be willing to foster and maintain collaborative relationships within the Institute.
- Be aware of and enthusiastic about incorporating future technology into current and future scientific projects and endeavors.
- Use and maintenance of automated liquid handlers
Qualifications
- Skilled pipetting technique
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field preferred
- 0-2 years experience in a biology laboratory
The La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) offers a collegial work environment that emphasizes collaboration, teamwork and creativity. Full-time employment at LJI includes a competitive salary, medical/dental/vision benefits, paid sick leave, and contributions to a retirement plan (403B). For the last decade, LJI has been ranked as one of the best places to work in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal. The Institute hosts world-renowned faculty and over 80 postdoctoral researchers. LJI is located in the Science Research Park on the campus of UC San Diego, providing easy access to the San Diego life sciences community and all that the area has to offer.
LJI provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, disability status, genetics, medical conditions, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, reproductive health decisions, or pregnancy, or any other condition protected by state and local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placing, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfers, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, recalls, transfers, leaves of absences, and social and recreational programs.
With over 30 different countries represented, diversity is respected and celebrated at LJI. We are committed to ensuring a safe and compassionate environment that is equal, just, and fair. Science and discovery benefit from a diversity of talents, a diversity of approaches, and a diversity of perspectives. The La Jolla Institute’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative is designed to help us identify areas at the Institute that need improvement so we can together create an environment that is inclusive, provides equal opportunities, and opens doors that propel our research for human health.
La Jolla Institute is committed to compensation that is externally competitive and internally equitable. We validate this commitment by conducting regular market analyses to remain competitive with organizations of similar size in the nonprofit, independent research sector. Compensation decisions consider a variety of factors including experience, education, unique skill sets, organizational need, and internal equity.