CalCOFI eDNA Technician - 135101

The organizing principle of the Integrative Oceanography Division (IOD) resides in a shared commitment to collaborative, interdisciplinary science. "Integrative" denotes our philosophy that multiple approaches are important in creating a better understanding of the ocean system. We take great pride in our membership of physical, biological, chemical and geological oceanographers, climate and information scientists, data and information managers, engineers, technicians, education specialists, administrative and management professionals. IOD distinguishes itself as scientific home for researchers working at the boundaries of traditional academic spheres, and generating growing programs in the integration of research with informatics as well as with education and public outreach. From pelagic to benthic ecology, shoreline to open ocean dynamics, data to information systems, our research encompasses field work, laboratory experimentation and computer modeling to acquire, integrate, synthesize and understand diverse data sets to elucidate the underlying dynamics of complex, multidimensional ocean systems.

Under general supervision, perform technical duties in laboratory requiring scientific and specialized knowledge and skills. Oversee the processing, quality control, and organization of environmental DNA (eDNA) from archived net tow samples to support the development of a 25-year time series on zooplankton community composition in the southern California Current System. This work leverages archived samples from the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI) biorepositories. Responsibilities include generating eDNA samples by filtering preservation buffer (ethanol) from archived bongo net tows and extracting DNA from the filters.

Collaborate closely with Pelagic Invertebrate Collection (PIC) managers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography to appropriately facilitate the transfer, logging, and replacement of source materials. Additionally, close coordination with the CalCOFI Molecular Ecology team is required to monitor progress, assess sample quality, and ensure record completeness. Perform eDNA filtration and extraction, with potential quality control steps involving polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or other molecular biology techniques as needed.

• Graduation from high school and three (3) years of laboratory experience or two (2) years of college including courses in biology, molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, marine science and two (2) years of laboratory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Working knowledge of molecular biology and sterile laboratory techniques, including PCR, DNA extraction, and next-generation DNA sequencing library preparation.

• Proven experience working with zooplankton samples.

• Experience performing quality control on techniques and verifying sample integrity and completeness.

• Knowledge of and experience in general laboratory protocols.

• Experience with MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel or equivalent. Demonstrated experience in data management.

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills (oral and written).

• Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently. Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

• Careful attention to detail. Demonstrated excellent organizational skills including ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, and follow written and oral protocols effectively and with minimal instruction.

• 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.

• Knowledge of laboratory safety requirements and procedures, and ability to maintain up-to-date safety training certification.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

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