Laboratory Technician III – Veterinary Science – University of Wyoming – Laramie, WY

The University of Wyoming invites diverse applicants to consider our employment opportunities. We are also especially interested in candidates who have experience working with diverse populations and/or diverse initiatives

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JOB TITLE:

Laboratory Technician III

JOB PURPOSE:

The Malmberg Lab at the University of Wyoming (UW)/Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) is seeking candidates for a laboratory research technician to support multiple current and future research projects in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) and Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) to better understand CWD dynamics and inform management of free-ranging cervids. Primary responsibilities will include optimization and application of the real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay for chronic wasting disease (CWD) research. The technician will lead a project that aims to characterize prion kinetics using biological samples from a controlled longitudinal study, and to estimate the relative role of biological heterogeneities in transmission dynamics and prion deposition in the environment. The technician will also assist with other research projects, which aim to improve ante-mortem CWD detection by RT-QuIC, identify underlying mechanisms of CWD ‘hot spots’ in Wyoming, and investigate the role of predators and scavengers in CWD ecology. In addition to RT-QuIC, the technician will be trained in necropsy techniques, biological sample collection, and disease data management to support cause-specific mortality studies.

The Malmberg Lab consists of a small, dynamic team in the Department of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Wyoming/Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory currently comprised of one PhD student, two MS students, and several undergraduate research students. In addition to CWD project responsibilities the selected candidate will be expected to take a leadership role in the Malmberg lab, which includes but is not limited to mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, involvement in other lab research projects, coordination of lab meetings, and contribution to lab-generated publications.

Dr. Malmberg is a board-certified anatomic pathologist with expertise in pathogenesis and evolution of infectious diseases of wildlife. The selected candidate will have access to state-of-the-art equipment at the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory and opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary programs and collaborations at UW. Opportunities to gain teaching experience are available if desired. This is a 3-year position with an annual salary of $55,000-68,000 depending on experience and includes full University of Wyoming benefits. The position may be extended contingent on funding. We recognize the scientific benefits of diverse collaborations with people from varied backgrounds, and we encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Using protocols and technical expertise adapted from experienced collaborators, the successful candidate will apply RT-QuIC to an archival set of biological samples from mule deer, white-tailed deer and elk to elucidate timing and magnitude of prion shedding. Responsibilities include designing and performing controlled assays and experiments, analyzing data, and communicating results to diverse stakeholders including local, state, and federal agencies. Additional essential duties include supporting and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students on other projects, including molecular characterization of

Mycoplasma bovis

in pronghorn and bison.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

Additional duties include supporting and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students on other projects, including molecular characterization of

Mycoplasma bovis

in pronghorn and bison.

COMPETENCIES:

Analysis/Problem Identification

Attention to Detail

Initiative

Developing Organizational Talent

Safety Awareness

Strong laboratory and analytical skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Strong written and oral communication skills

REMOTE WORK ELIGIBILITY:

This position provides vital support to campus customers and requires the successful candidate be available to work on campus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree

Experience:

2 years work-related experience

Required licensure, certification, registration, or other requirement:

Valid driver’s license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) that is compliant with the

University Vehicle Use Policy

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DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Competitive candidates will have one or more of the following:

MS degree or equivalent in a relevant field

Experience working with prions in a research laboratory setting

Molecular laboratory and bioinformatic analysis skills

Experience with R, ArcGIS, occupancy modeling, and/or other spatial analysis tools

Ability to design, interpret and communicate applied studies in disease ecology, wildlife management, or conservation science

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and professionally with diverse stakeholders

Demonstrated communication of scientific findings through publications and presentations

Demonstrated ability to manage research projects

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

Complete the online application and upload the following for a complete application: cover letter, resume or C.V. and contact information for four work-related references.

HIRING STATEMENT:

UW is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer. We are committed to a multicultural environment and strongly encourage applications from women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities.

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please call
307-766-2377 or email

[email protected]

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ABOUT LARAMIE:

The University of Wyoming is located in Laramie, a town of 30,000 in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West. The state of Wyoming continues to invest in its university, helping to make it a leader in academics, research and outreach. The university has state-of-the-art facilities in many areas and the community provides the advantages of a major university.

Located in a high mountain valley near the Colorado border, Laramie offers both outstanding recreational opportunities and close proximity to Colorado’s Front Range, a bustling group of metropolitan cities including Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins. This beautiful mountain landscape offers outdoor enjoyment in all seasons, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. For more information about the region, please visit

http://visitlaramie.org/

Source: Indeed.com
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