Laboratory Research Assistant

The Marko Lab at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology (OIMB) is seeking a full-time laboratory research assistant. This position will support genetic, genomic, and biodiversity research in marine ecosystems, with primary responsibilities focused on generating, organizing, and analyzing DNA sequence data using high-throughput methods. Research projects in the lab are diverse, spanning population genomics of individual species as well as environmental DNA analyses of entire biological communities. The laboratory research assistant will also train and mentor students in laboratory techniques, data handling, and analytical workflows to ensure data quality and reproducibility and maintain laboratory infrastructure and equipment to support ongoing molecular and computational work.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field
• Experience (beyond course work) conducting molecular biology laboratory methods, such as DNA extraction and PCR
• Experience (beyond course work) applying population biology, statistical, OR bioinformatic methods to biological data

Professional Competencies

• Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Sound judgment and ability to independently follow through on tasks and projects
• Proficiency with common computer software, including Microsoft Office (Excel and Word)
• Flexibility to learn new skills quickly, troubleshoot protocols and equipment, and adapt to changing priorities
• Capacity to reliably train others in an analytical field

Preferred Qualifications

​​• Master’s degree in biology or related field
​• Proficiency in multi-step, end-to-end molecular workflows, including high-throughput sequencing and downstream genome-scale data analysis
​• Advanced understanding of evolutionary, ecological, or molecular processes as applied to population genetics or environmental DNA studies
​• Proficiency in statistical analysis of population genetic data in programming language such as R
​• Experience independently planning and executing marine field sampling for genetic or environmental DNA studies
​• Experience with laboratory automation, high-throughput sample processing, or workflow optimization​