Career Center

The University of Washington (UW) is proud to be one of the nation’s premier educational and research institutions. Our people are the most important asset in our pursuit of achieving excellence in education, research, and community service. Our staff not only enjoys outstanding benefits and professional growth opportunities, but also an environment noted for diversity, community involvement, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.

The Department of Genome Sciences is part of the University of Washington School of Medicine and is comprised of 31 labs addressing leading edge questions in biology and medicine by developing and applying genetic, genomic and computational approaches taking advantage of genomic information now available for a host of species. GS is making major contributions in the application of genome science to understand the fundamentals of biology and to improve human health and wellbeing. Genome Sciences is a collaborative department supported by very different academic disciplines. We work with a multitude of Program Investigators (PIs) in departments both on the UW campus as well as worldwide. The department has gone through significant expansion since its beginning in 2001 with annual grant awards of $68.5M in FY21.

The Department of Genome Sciences is committed to creating an environment that is welcoming and inclusive. Our goal is to foster a place of learning and working where all members can thrive and where diversity is recognized and celebrated. At Genome Sciences, we aim to create supportive spaces for those who are marginalized in higher education or society. To achieve this, we recognize that it is our ongoing responsibility to understand, acknowledge, and challenge systems of privilege and disadvantage in higher education such as those based on race, color, creed, caste, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or socioeconomic status.

The Northwest Genomics Center (NWGC) at the University of Washington is one of the leading genome centers in the United States. The NWGC, housed in the Department of Genome Sciences, is the largest self-sustaining genome center in the Pacific Northwest and one of the most successful genome centers in the country. It has partnered to deliver exome and/or whole genome sequence (WGS) data for many highly successful large-scale human genetic projects for both rare conditions and common diseases. These projects include the Centers for Mendelian Genomics (CMG), the NHLBI Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine Program (TOPMed) and, most recently, the All of Us Research Program.

The Department of Genome Sciences’ Northwest Genomics Center has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist/Engineer 2 to join their team.

POSITION PURPOSE

The Research Scientist will conduct laboratory research focusing on the identification of DNA variation in human populations in a high-throughput genomics laboratory in the Department of Genome Sciences. This position will require expertise in molecular biology and genomics protocols and the ability to perform research and take responsibility for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness for large projects.

The Research Scientist will work under immediate supervision to meet project deadlines and complete assigned tasks by implementing well-established protocols and evaluating and developing new protocols. Weekly meetings are held to discuss project status.

DIMENSIONS AND IMPACT TO THE UNIVERSITY

This position will work in a prominent laboratory whose work impacts other researchers worldwide. High functionality will be reflected in even greater funding opportunities and enhancement of the reputation of the University as a biomedical research powerhouse.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Carry out laboratory protocols for next-generation DNA and RNA sequencing on Illumina platforms.

Perform standard molecular biology protocols and assist in the development of new methods for DNA, RNA, and methylation analysis.

Develop and maintain precise laboratory protocols and records.

Work with laboratory information systems (LIMS) to log workflow data.

Work within a laboratory team environment to process and track DNA and RNA samples.

Program and operate robotics stations for sample preparation.

Implement quality-assurance protocols.

Perform routine assessment of data quality. Assist with trouble-shooting and daily quality control of data.

Aid in the development of new experimental methods and assist laboratory co-workers and/or the PI in meeting long-term scientific goals.

Attend Genome Sciences and University meetings, retreats, status updates, orientations and planning days when necessary.

Other duties may be assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Genetics/Biochemistry, Chemical or Biomedical Engineering, or other related Life Sciences field and 2 years experience in a high-throughput genomics laboratory using standard molecular biology techniques in next-generation sequencing and manipulation, whether in a professional or academic setting.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Working knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, and/or chemistry.

Excellent technical wet bench skills.

Excellent recording keeping and ability to refine and develop protocols.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

Must be highly organized with a strong attention to detail.

Open to receiving direction and to asking for assistance when needed.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience in DNA and RNA library sequencing library construction.

Experience in a high-throughput genomics laboratory using standard molecular biology techniques in next-generation sequencing and manipulation.

Experience working with next-generation sequencing technologies (various Illumina platforms.)

Experience with liquid handling systems, specifically, Janus, Zepher, and Sciclones systems.

Experience trouble-shooting mechanical and robotic systems.

Experience working in a CLIA-certified environment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

CLIA-certified lab environment

Occasionally lifts and/or carries objects weighing up to 30 pounds.

Occasionally stoops and bends.

Occasionally reaches and grasps with arms and hands.

Application Process:  

The application process for UW positions may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process.  These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others.  Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select “Apply to this position”. Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your “My Jobs” page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.