We are seeking to fill the position of Genomics Researcher. This position is part of CRITFC’s Fishery Science Department, but will be located with the genetics group at the Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station in Hagerman, ID. This research group is involved in testing conservation, evolution, and ecological theories related to salmonids and other fishes. The Genomics Researcher will work under the Lead Geneticist and Lab Managers, in association with CRITFC geneticists and other technicians, as well as staff of the Fishery Science Department in Portland, OR. Efforts will focus on applying empirical genetics/genomics data to address questions related to conservation and recovery of steelhead, Chinook, sockeye, and coho salmon, sturgeon, lamprey, and other fishes of the Columbia River Basin. Beyond typical lab duties, additional roles include bioinformatics support on genomics projects, processing sequencing data with existing pipelines, and generation of genomic data from sequencing instruments.

• Starting Salary: Range of $48,608-$55,088 (CRITFC scale of GS9/1 to GS9/5; DOQ)
• Benefits: Full health benefits (Health, Dental, Vision) and retirement package
• Department: Fishery Science
• Classification: Full-time, Regular, Non-Exempt
• Location: Hagerman, Idaho

Specific duties of this position include, but are not limited to:

1. Conduct bioinformatics on large scale sequencing data.
2. Process sequencing data with existing pipelines.
3. Maintain and operate sequencing instruments.
4. Prepare sampling materials for collecting fish tissue samples in the field.
5. Extract DNA from fish tissues.
6. Prepare DNA libraries for next-generation sequencing (e.g., Pool-seq, RNA-seq, GT-seq, whole genome resequencing).
7. Analyze genetic markers on specialized laboratory equipment.
8. Data entry into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and Progeny database.
9. Complete QA/QC protocols.
10. Communicate effectively with project leaders.
11. Participate in inter-agency workgroups, as necessary.
12. Other duties as assigned and as appropriate to CRITFC goals and purposes.
13. Execute research in accordance with developed proposals.
14. Contribute to reports and publications of key scientific results.

The Genomics Researcher is required to meet one of the following education criteria: a Bachelor’s degree in a field of science, an Associate’s degree with one year’s experience, or three years’ experience in a related position. In addition, the person must have demonstrated skills in the following areas.

1. Knowledge of basic scientific principles achieved through experience or education.
2. Proficiency with computer hardware and software (i.e., Microsoft Excel, Word).
3. Willingness to learn laboratory techniques and protocols.
4. Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining concentration.
5. Strong attention to detail.
6. Dedicated work ethic.
7. Good interpersonal and communication skills.
8. Physical ability to stand 4-6 hours/day, perform assigned laboratory duties (requires keen motor skills) and lift up to 30 pounds. Occasionally will be required to work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances with appropriate safety gear.
9. Specialty in activities related to SNP discovery, genotyping, and gene expression.
10. Familiar with current molecular genetic techniques, laboratory methods and equipment, including Illumina sequencers and similar equipment.
11. Experience in sequence alignment, SNP identification, amplicon assay development, statistical analysis, and the relevant software for each of these tasks.
12. Competent working in Linux frameworks processing and troubleshooting existing analysis pipelines.

Additional Desirable Qualifications:

13. Experience with database imports, exports, and queries.
14. Competency in Shell, Bash, Python, and Perl scripting.
15. Master’s degree in a field of science.

The Genomics Researcher must have the ability both to work independently and to be an effective team member, coordinating and communicating well with project leaders, Lab Managers and Lead Geneticist in Hagerman, and with the Fishery Science Manager and Fishery Science Staff in Portland. There are no supervisory duties associated with the position; however, the position may involve training technicians on new laboratory protocols.

Most of the work is performed in a laboratory or office setting. At times, it will be necessary to participate in field sampling and attend regional meetings, conferences and workshops.

The driver operating a CRITFC vehicle or their own private vehicle for business related purposes shall be in possession of a valid, unrestricted current driver’s license, or other operator’s license, as required by law; and be eligible for coverage under CRITFC’s Motor Vehicle insurance policy. Upon request, CRITFC’s Motor Vehicle policy is available to applicants to review the required criteria.

Click here to download the CRITFC job application form.

All qualified individuals, including women, veterans, minorities and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Hiring preference will be given to qualified enrolled members of federally recognized tribes and Alaskan Natives, especially to members of the four CRITFC member tribes (Warm Springs, Yakama, Umatilla and Nez Perce). If accommodations are needed during the application process, please contact Human Resources (see info below).

Note: no incomplete application will be considered.

Complete application materials include a cover letter, CV/resume, a completed job application a copy of relevant certifications and a list of at least three professional references.

Send application packet to:

CRITFC
ATTN: Human Resources
700 NE Multnomah, Suite 1200
Portland, OR 97232

You may submit your application by:

• Surface mail to the above address
• Fax to (503) 238-3571
• email to hr@critfc.org