Position Function:
The Laboratory Technician, under general supervision, will employ a broad knowledge of principles, practices and procedures in the molecular virology field to collect and process field samples, coordinate and conduct research.
The technician will collect animal biological samples (swabs), optimize the extraction of nucleic acids, develop a quantitative PCR (qPCR)approach to detect viral agents in biological materials. The technician will also help the supervisor maintain the research laboratory including the biosafety protocols, ordering of supplies and conducting other research activities.
Salary Grade: 09
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The newly created Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition & Health Promotion has academic, research and extension education missions within the traditions of land-grant universities. The Department has roughly 35 faculty in biochemistry, nutrition/dietetics, food science, and health promotion disciplines. The Department offers B.S., and Ph.D. degrees and currently advises approximately 400 undergraduate and 30 graduate students.
Area of Specialization:
Molecular techniques applied to virology research
Anticipated Appointment Date:
June 2025.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Collect animal/environmental samples.
2. Extract nucleic acids.
3. Isolate viruses.
4. Detect pathogens using pathogen-specific qPCR protocols.
5. Maintain the research laboratories.
6. Practice good safety control protocols.
7. Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: High school diploma or GED.
Experience: One year similar to duties described above.
Licensure: Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
Research experiences in animal pathogens.
B.S. degree in biochemistry, biology or microbiology.
Demonstrated competence in this field.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Knowledge of microbiology techniques, such as sterile operation, medium preparation, microbial isolation
2. Knowledge with general procedures of DNA extraction, qPCR analysis and microbial identification
3. Knowledge of bioinformatics, such as DNA sequence analysis software and genomewide analysis
4. Excellent computer skills such as spreadsheets and word processing
5. Excellent interpersonal communications, organizational and problem-solving skills
6. Ability to prioritize competing demands and meet deadlines.
7. Ability to work as a team member.
8. Ability to anticipate barriers to project completion, plan and manage contingencies.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
1. Require working in a Biosafety level-2 research laboratory.
2. Occasionally to drive to farm or research facilities and expose to outdoor conditions.
3. Frequent, external imposed deadlines.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Apply online at msujobs.msstate.edu.
Screening Date:
May 27, 2025, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
