Description

Who We’re Looking For:

The Division of Infectious Disease Diagnostics within the University of Washington Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology is seeking a talented Research Scientist/Engineer 3 (one-year, full-time appointment) to join our Research and Development Laboratory at the UW Central Lab in Renton, WA. 

In this role, the successful candidate will drive the innovation and development of next-generation sequencing (NGS), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) assays for cutting-edge infectious disease diagnostics and biomarker studies. Our dynamic R&D group has a proven track record of clinical translation and global impact. We have developed multiple CLIA-validated molecular assays for high-consequence pathogens—including SARS-CoV-2, mpox, measles, and H5 influenza—and have sequenced hundreds of thousands of viral, bacterial, fungal, and eukaryotic parasite genomes to shape global epidemiology. Furthermore, our biomarker data have supported multiple successful FDA submissions for novel antiviral and vaccine candidates, directly influencing the future of infectious disease medicine. While a strong background in molecular assay design is essential, prior experience with T-cell receptor (TCR) and B-cell receptor (BCR) sequencing is highly desirable as we expand our diagnostic and biomarker portfolio.

Work Schedule:

• 100% FTE (full-time)
• One-year appointment 
• Day shift 
• Located in our new state-of-the-art lab in Renton, WA
• Salary: $80,244 - $108,000 annually 

What You’ll Contribute:

Developmental Duties (35%):

• Design, develop, and validate innovative NGS, real-time qPCR, and ddPCR assays for viral, bacterial, fungal, and eukaryotic parasite diagnostic and research applications. These newly developed assays will be used in future clinical care of patients and clinical trials of sponsors, along with research collaborations.
• Quality control and analyze data from NGS, qPCR, and ddPCR assays.
• Critically examine literature and newly developed assays from outside groups to determine best assays to adopt within our clinical and clinical trials laboratory.
• Implement GCLP standards, including robust documentation and compliance, across existing workflows.
• Adopt new, unique procedures and technologies, which are not standardized, to fulfill the needs of individual studies.

Analytical/Operational Duties (45%):

• Perform and improve procedures currently used in the lab, including NGS, viral load and viral detection, gene expression, cell culture, and protein expression for binding antibody and general immunology testing.
• Draft manuscripts describing novel NGS, qPCR, and ddPCR assays.
• Maintain complete and accurate records and document all the changes.
• Apply a variety of techniques on different types of study samples according to the study needs, analyze the experimental results and determine the follow-up experiments.
• Write up and update standard operating procedures for laboratory personnel to follow.
• Review and update study plans.
• Perform laboratory standard operating procedures.
• Performs assays accurately, precisely, track the progress of studies and make sure all the deadlines are met.
• Conduct data analysis and interpretation for grant submission and publication.
• Accommodate schedule changes to cooperatively accomplish required daily work.
• Ability to continue co-workers’ experiments and take over their responsibility.
• Participate in all laboratory maintenance and inventory duties.
• Conduct literature search and review to determine research methods and project planning.
• Initiate and manage moderate size projects and communicate with outside PIs and Supervisor regarding study project progress making recommendations for improvements.
• Provide cross-check of co-workers’ results and data entry to ensure data integrity.
• Follow the QA/QC policies and report all operation deviations.
• Perform computer security updates as required on the networked lab computers.

Leadership/Supervisory Duties (20%):

• Train newly hired employees and students.
• Supervisory responsibility for junior staff, including hiring, training, performing performance evaluations, and disciplinary action.
• Delegates work when appropriate; consults with supervisor regarding department workload when necessary.
• Act as a role model/mentor to new employees and students.
• May direct the operation of one or more facets of the research laboratory/
• May evaluate and select new equipment.
• Perform other duties as required. 

What We Offer:

• Free parking! 
• Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
• Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
• And much more! 

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally. 

Please visit our website to learn more about our department. 

About the UW:

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or related field and four years of relevant experience to include Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and an understanding of basic viral biology.
• Experience in primer/probe design for PCR and collaborative project design.
• Prior experience in analyzing next-generation sequencing data.
• Strong written and communication skills.
• Ability to problem solve and troubleshoot.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Desired Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or related field.
  Five years of experience in a related area.
• TCR and BCR sequencing experience.
• Highly organized and have a knowledge of laboratory working environments.
• Previous experience in PCR and droplet digital PCR is highly desirable.
• Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) skills.