RESEARCH TECHNICIAN II

100% Grant Funded Research Technician II for approximately one year. Extensions will be contingent on funding, performance, and needs of the lab.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE:

Education:

A degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, or a related field is preferred, but not mandatory for candidates with hands-on experience and skill proficiency.

Skills and Experience:

Technical Proficiency: Experience in genomics or related fields, with a background in DNA extraction, PCR, and/or sequencing. Prior experience with robotic systems is a plus.

Growth Mindset: A strong willingness to learn, adapt, and develop new skills. We value curiosity and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Dedication and Efficiency: We seek individuals who thrive on doing experimental work, and who have a passion for repeatedly conducting detailed-oriented experiments with a focus on precision and efficiency. We seek individuals who are self-motivated and dedicated to continuous improvement.

Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively within a team and contribute to a collaborative research environment.

OVERVIEW:

The David Lab at Duke University (www.ladlab.org) is recruiting a technician to join a team of scientists developing and using new DNA sequencing tools to study diet and the gut microbiome. We are particularly interested in creating new ways to measure and analyze food intake, which is essential for monitoring and improving human health. We are developing new DNA sequencing-based techniques that track the dietary plant and animal species people consume. Our techniques generate objective data on intakes of over 450 plant and animal species, robust to differences in memory/recall, and standardized across languages and cultures using the universal language of DNA. We collaborate with researchers and communities across North Carolina and the world. Our studies will also create new models of disease risk and examine geographic, cultural, behavioral, and socioeconomic determinants of diet. Our projects are funded by awards from Schmidt Sciences, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the National Institutes of Health, the Gerber Foundation, and the Burroughs Wellcome Fund.

THE ROLE:

We seek a Research Technician II to play a crucial role in supporting our team's research efforts. This position is suited for individuals who thrive in an in-person work environment, requiring high precision and efficiency in laboratory tasks, and a mindset geared towards continuous learning and improvement. The RTII will run day-to-day molecular workflows that move samples from receipt to clean, analyzable sequencing libraries. The RTII will also help standardize procedures, maintain inventory and equipment, and train student assistant to ensure reliable throughput across multiple projects.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sample Intake and Chain-of-Custody

• Receive and process wastewater and mail-in citizen-science kits; verify metadata, barcodes, temperature, and control logs.
• Accession, aliquot, and store samples with appropriate protocols and maintain accurate lab records.

Molecular Workflows and QC

• Perform DNA extractions from concentrates, swabs, and solids, quantify nucleic acids, and prepare amplicon libraries (e.g., trnL, 12SV5) and other targeted assays with accuracy and consistency.
• Set up and run PCR using standard instruments (thermocyclers, fluorometers, plate readers), controls, and standards.
• Prepare sequencing libraries and conduct sequencing.
• Troubleshoot assays, document deviations and corrective actions, and prepare summaries for project reporting.

Lab operations

• Prepare buffers, reagents, and other lab materials; track lot numbers and manage inventory; place orders and receive supplies.
• Calibrate and maintain common equipment; coordinate preventative maintenance and service calls.
• Operate and maintain laboratory robotics and automated liquid handling systems.
• Uphold biosafety, chemical hygiene, and waste-disposal procedures.
• Ensure temperature monitoring in freezers and fridges.
• Maintain and improve standard operating procedures and protocols.
• Conduct routine-intensive experiments with enthusiasm, constantly seeking ways to improve speed and efficiency without compromising quality.

Data Collection and Processing:

• Assist in collecting, processing, and managing data from various genomic experiments.
• Assemble and conduct quality assurance of participant stool collection kits.
• Coordinate with water reclamation facility personnel, assemble and conduct quality assurance of wastewater collection kits.
• Manage shipments and returns of all sample collection kits and ensure timely processing.

Collaboration and Teamwork:

• Coordinate with field sampling teams on field sampling needs, sample readiness, and turnaround.
• Communicate with student research assistants on core tasks, safety, timelines, and quality.
• Work collaboratively within the lab team and contribute to a positive and productive research environment.

Join Us

Be part of a dynamic team committed to innovating in the fields of genomics, nutrition, and public health. Our lab offers a stimulating environment where your contributions will have a meaningful impact on scientific research and public health. We welcome applicants who are passionate about advancing genomic technologies and are ready to embark on a challenging and rewarding research career.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Interested candidates should submit both a resume and a cover letter detailing their suitability for the role, emphasizing their mindset and approach towards laboratory work.

Choose Duke.

The Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology serves as the administrative infrastructure for four research centers that bridge investigators with primary and secondary appointments in the Department with other investigators throughout the medical center, and foster robust interfaces between the clinical and basic sciences. We are committed to a highly interactive atmosphere where staff, students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty flourish.

Faculty members in the Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology have been well-recognized for their achievements. Follow thislinkfor detailed information about faculty honors and awards and thislinkfor faculty highlighted publications.