Insect DNA Barcoding Lab Technician

About the Thriving California/ Entomology TeamThriving California is a major new Academy initiative that will harness scientific data and mobilize diverse communities to fight climate change, stop biodiversity loss, and advocate for nature in the Golden State. Our Entomology department oversees one of the largest insect collections in the world, containing over 17 million specimens, many of which are from the State of California.   Key Responsibilities  Collaborate with a team based at the Academy to obtain COI barcodes from insect specimens in our collections via MinION amplicon sequencing. Prepare reagents and consumables, and stock lab consumables (tubes, tips, etc.)  Maintain an inventory of frozen gDNA, and intermediate products (i.e., PCR)  Conduct genomic lab work including DNA extraction, Amplicon sequencing via MinION (Oxford Nanopore) Assist with barcoding database management and submission od barcode data to public databases  Train undergraduate interns in lab methods Follow all Academy safety regulations  Other duties as assigned    Qualifications EXPERIENCE and/or EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or equivalent. Minimum two years’ experience in standard PCR/Sanger sequencing-based laboratory protocols Experience in second and third-generation sequencing techniques and protocols preferred Experience working with museum specimens preferred Excellent verbal and written communication skills (English) and a strong background in science communication with diverse audiences.    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:   Strong interest in biodiversity and ability to communicate that passion.  Ability to perform standard PCR and DNA sequencing lab work Familiarity with second and third generation sequencing techniques  Works as a part of multi-disciplinary teams and diverse stakeholder groups Committed to working on a team that is striving to be anti-racist in work, interactions, systems, and tools Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail Ability to work independently, and as a member of interdisciplinary teams on cross-cutting issues Demonstrated ability to successfully collaborate with non-scientists  Flexible and creative Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals Ability to write routine reports and correspondence    Physical Environment: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Ability to lift 10 lbs.   Ability to perform repetitive motions 20% of the time

Salary : $28 - $29