Principal Research Technician - Sequencing Platforms

Principal Research Technician - Sequencing Platforms - 73995
Organization: GN-Genomics

The DOE Joint Genome Institute in Walnut Creek, CA (a division of the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab) has a 6 month term appointment available for an experienced Laboratory Technician to support the Genomic Technologies Group. Under limited supervision, this position will provide complex technical support in scientific instrument operation, sample preparation, analysis, experimental design execution & data collection for DNA sequencing tasks within a high-throughput environment. Advanced knowledge, experience & technical skills in biological sciences & molecular biology techniques required. Attention to detail, effective troubleshooting skills & good judgment are also required. May provide technical guidance &/or lead the work of other employees. May be required to lift up to 25 lbs. frequently & maneuver up to 50 lbs. occasionally, & work in a cold environment with freezers at temperatures of -80c. Position will report to the Sequencing Platforms group supervisor.

Note: There are two positions available. One career appointment to work a shift 1 schedule (7am to 3:30pm / Monday-Friday) & one 6-month term appointment to work a shift 2 schedule (12:30pm to 9:00pm / Monday-Friday).

Specific Job Duties
- Perform procedures associated with DNA sequencing on the Illumina Sequencer platform; including DNA library preparation, sample quantification preparation, & Sequencer operation.
- Analyze current process procedures & provide feedback for the optimization & improvement of the production line.
- Maintain & update laboratory protocols; identify areas of improvement & efficiency & offer feedback.
- Provide technical guidance & training on laboratory procedures.
- Perform technical laboratory procedures with limited direction, where attention to detail, effective troubleshooting skills & good judgment are required.
- Conduct analysis of daily sequencing results; troubleshoot process issues, generate reports, present findings & provide recommendations on poor performing instruments & samples &/or solutions to process issues.
- Work independently to determine methods & procedures on new assignments.
- Operate a variety of robotic & laboratory equipment used in high-throughput sequencing.
- Follow laboratory protocols as set forth in the Production Sequencing SOP's.
- Use of databases & various software programs to track & monitor the performance of reagents, instruments, samples, & process steps.
- Maintain an accurate & detailed laboratory notebook; observe & document any deviations from established protocols.
- Maintain a clean & safe laboratory work area; perform daily maintenance, clean up, & workspace organization within assigned work areas.