Wet Lab Technician II

Wet Lab Technician II Posting Number req25621 Department School of Plant Sciences-Res Department Website Link Location Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights The successful candidate will be integrated into a small, collaborative team of experienced researchers and will regularly perform projects involving nucleic acid extraction, as well as occasionally to sequencing library preparation efforts. This role will focus on hands-on laboratory research and support ongoing and new experimental initiatives. Primary responsibilities include planning, executing, and documenting laboratory experiments; preparing samples using established molecular biology protocols; and operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory instruments and equipment. The candidate will be expected to follow standard operating procedures and safety guidelines, with guidance and oversight from senior scientific staff as needed, while gradually developing greater independence in their work. In addition, the candidate will interact frequently with internal colleagues and external collaborators, including researchers from various scientific and technical backgrounds such as bio-informatics and data analysis. As a result, strong communication skills and the ability to translate and explain experimental concepts, results, and limitations across disciplines are essential. The successful candidate should be comfortable working in a team-oriented environment, contributing to discussions, and supporting collaborative research goals.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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Duties & Responsibilities

• Extract nucleic acids using multiple protocols. Perform quality control with different instruments and methods.
• Maintain detailed records, summarize the results in reports, and disseminate research findings in meetings and as manuscripts in scientific journals.
• Receive, store, and track incoming samples, grind tissue.
• Prepare sequencing libraries for long- and short-read sequencing platforms and execute other molecular biology lab protocols.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge in handling DNA and RNA for modern genomic methods.
• Knowledge handling a multifaceted workload, being able to stay organized with notes, reports, etc.
• Ability to work independently once cleared by supervisor.
• Knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques, including pipetting and DNA and RNA isolation and recombinant DNA techniques.
• Knowledge in using single- and multi-channel pipette, making solutions, working with hazardous substances (liquid nitrogen, ethanol, chloroform, strong acids & bases). Knowledge in taking notes, interpreting, reporting, and presenting results at meetings and conferences.
• Ability to understand problematic samples and hypothesize troubleshooting procedures.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Previous employment in a research laboratory performing molecular biology techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

• Good Knowledge of biology, genetics, or related field, 3+ years of experience in a molecular biology laboratory.
• Bachelor's degree and 3 years relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

FLSA Non-Exempt Full Time/Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE 1.0 Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Research Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay $16.50 - $20.63 Compensation Type hourly rate Grade 3 Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizonas good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidates work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator . Career Stream and Level OC2 Job Family Research & Lab Job Function Research Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date 4/27/2026 Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Dario Copetti
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