Molecular Diagnostics Research Assistant III

Working/Functional Title

Molecular Diagnostics Research Asst III

Position Summary

The MSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) in the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at Michigan State University (MSU)  is seeking a Research Assistant III to oversee and facilitate the development, optimization, and validation of diagnostic tests utilizing digital PCR and next generation sequencing. This position will also provide technical support for the current tests including operation and maintenance of complex instruments while analyzing related test data for diagnostic quality and instrument performance.

As part of the MSU VDL, the Molecular Diagnostics Research Assistant III performs a variety of molecular procedures including but not limited to DNA quantification, library preparation, next generation sequencing, PCR, real time PCR, and sanger sequencing. Oversee and facilitate the development, optimization, and validation of molecular diagnostic tests utilizing PCR, Real-Time PCR, Digital PCR, and sequencing technologies. Preparation of samples for sequencing. Primary tasks are divided into the categories of Clinical Diagnostic Support (50%) and Assay Development/Validation (50%). The proportion of time devoted to primary tasks varies according to project requirements and clinical diagnostic needs.

This position will provide consultation services related to the development of Molecular Diagnostic laboratory services. The ability to discuss current testing capabilities is an essential part of this position. Familiarity with the principle and limitations of each technology is crucial.  Strong verbal and written communication skills are required.

The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is a fully accredited diagnostic laboratory for all species offering both routine and specialty diagnostics averaging over one million tests per year. The VDL is an invaluable resource when for identifying tracking and addressing merging animal disease and public health threats. The MSU VDL investigates the cause of disease through our diagnostic expertise and unique test offerings in our Anatomical and Surgical Pathology, Bacteriology, Clinical Pathology, Endocrinology, Immunodiagnostics and Parasitology, Nutrition, Toxicology and Virology sections.  As part of our mission, we serve as a learning center for residents, future veterinarians, veterinary nursing students and even laboratorians. We collaborate with clinicians, State and Federal agencies to provide lifesaving data in a timely manner.  

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired through completion of one or two years of post-bachelor degree work, such as a Master's in molecular diagnostics, genetics, molecular biology or a related field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in research methodologies, writing reports, supervision, software, data interpretation and handling in molecular diagnostic techniques including nucleic acid extraction methods, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Real-Time PCR, Digital PCR, electrophoresis methods including capillary electrophoresis, and Sanger Sequencing; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Expertise in molecular diagnostic testing; nucleic acid extraction, PCR-based procedures including Real-Time PCR and Standard PCR; Experience operating Illumina and/or Oxford Nanopore Sequencing instrument; highly organized with strong attention to detail; ability to multi-task and meet deadlines while maintaining a high quality of work; ability to work independently as well as collaboratively and demonstrate a high level of initiative; have excellent time-management skills; experience in the use of laboratory information systems and the file management and manipulation of Excel and Word; excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as strong problem solving and customer service skills, and the ability to maintain a professional demeanor at all times. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please provide the following materials...

• Current Resume or CV
• Cover letter
• At least 3 Professional References

Special Instructions

Please provide the following materials...

• Current Resume or CV
• Cover letter
• At least 3 Professional References

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

HTTPS://CVM.MSU.EDU/VDL

Summary of Health Risks

Exposure to unfixed animal tissue

Bidding eligibility ends September 2, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.