Biological Technician I - USGS

full-time Biological Technician I position available to perform contract work for the U.S. Geological Survey Leetown Science Center (LSC). The work supports Dr. Tim King's Laboratory in the LSC Aquatic Ecology Branch's molecular ecology and evolution research program focusing on the conservation genetics of threatened and endangered species. The position is based at the LSC in Kearneysville, West Virginia.
Qualified individuals must possess a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Biology and knowledge of general molecular genetics techniques used to extract, purify, quantify, electrophorese, and hybridize total genomic DNA or RNA from tissue samples. The qualified candidate will demonstrate experience with all aspects of good laboratory techniques such as data recording, and be able to enter and analyze experimental data using spreadsheets, graphics, and word-processing software. The individual will assist Dr. King and work closely with other Government and contractor staff by supporting some or all of the following tasks depending on the individual’s specific qualifications:

• Perform laboratory analyses, laboratory experimentation, and data sampling to support AEL investigations of genetic variability of fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and mollusks.
• Extract, purify, and quantify total genomic DNA or RNA from tissue samples using fluorometric techniques.
• Amplify specific DNA segments by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique.
• Quantify digests of amplified regions with restriction enzymes.
• Support electrophoretic analysis of total genomic DNA, PCR products, and restrictase digests of DNA preparations, and general proteins.
• Clone digested genomic DNA and PCR products.
• Perform DNA sequencing using automated sequencers, e.g., Applied Biosystems 3130XL.
• Maintain a daily work journal of tasks accomplished.

The position may require light field work and infrequent related travel. Attendance at relevant training courses in molecular biological techniques may be offered/required at the Center.

Base wage: $21.36 per hour, 40 hours per week.

IAP World Services offers comprehensive benefits including competitive compensation, medical, dental, 401(k), and other employee selected benefit options. Qualified candidates must be able to perform normal office duties, use general office systems, and operate computer equipment. IAP World Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Individuals with the above experience and qualifications are requested to submit a resume via the IAP World Services website at www.iapws.com/careers or contact Dr. King.


Tim L. King, Ph.D.
Aquatic Ecology Branch
Leetown Science Center
U.S. Geological Survey
11649 Leetown Road
Kearneysville, West Virginia 25430
Phone: 304.724.4450
Facsimile: 304.724.4424
Personal Mobile: 304.582.4622

"The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them." Albert Einstein