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Form of workAbout Roger Williams University:
At Roger Williams University, students are prepared to be thinkers and doers ready to solve challenging problems with innovative solutions. RWU offers 50 majors and robust offerings of graduate and professional programs across eight schools of study including Rhode Island's only law school, with campuses on the coast of Bristol and in the heart of Providence, R.I. With small classrooms and a focus on undergraduate and graduate research and community engagement, a Roger Williams education blends the strength of liberal arts and professional studies, providing all students with the depth and breadth of interdisciplinary thinking and well-rounded knowledge necessary to succeed in our interconnected, global world. RWU is committed to strengthening society through engaged scholarship so that students graduate with the ability to think critically and apply the practical skills that today's employers demand.
Roger Williams University seeks to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. We value diversity, equity and inclusion and respect for all races, genders, identities, and abilities. RWU is committed to creating a thriving community that encourages lifelong learning, professional development, and academic innovation. To learn more about Roger Williams University's commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please visit https://www.rwu.edu/who-we-are/diversity-equity-inclusion.
Job Description:
Reporting to the Dean of the School of Social and Natural Sciences, and under the project-dependent direct supervision of the Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Manager or the Veterinarian, the Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Research Assistant is responsible for executing and assisting with conducting diagnostic tests on both samples submitted to the laboratory from the aquaculture community and samples examined as part of ongoing research. The Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Research Assistant uses Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) to process and conduct diagnostic testing methods, maintains specific diagnostic protocols, and conducts testing to a high standard of accomplishment. The Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Research Assistant assists in the general maintenance of the aquatics laboratory and assists with maintaining of bivalves, crustacean, and fish health within the laboratory.
Field and Laboratory Operations
Assist in receiving, processing and conducting diagnostic tests (quantitative PCR, PCR, necropsies, etc.) on bivalves and fish submitted to the laboratory for disease testing from aqua-culturists, regulators, and others.
Assemble resulting data in summaries both written and graphed reports.
Maintain the proper collection and disposal of waste generated in the laboratory and consult with the Laboratory Manager to ensure safe disposal.
Assist the Veterinarian in developing appropriate research protocols.
Conduct and assist in conducting research, methodically collect and record data, and assemble resulting data in summaries (written and graphed reports) to report on research-based data to the Lab Manager and Veterinarian.
Help analyze, develop, and refine diagnostic test methods used in the laboratory.
Under the guidance of the Manager and Veterinarian, directly supervise and train students working in the Diagnostic Laboratory in appropriate diagnostic and research procedures, and help student development of new research protocols.
Sampling and Data Collection
Maintain proper records of all incoming samples and resulting data, using computer-generated filing programs.
Maintain proper storage and records of physical materials, including, but not limited to, slides, blocks, frozen tissue, and photographs.
Make sample collection trips and site visits, to various aquaculture leases (both intertidal and sub-tidal), and other aquatic facilities, in various types of weather conditions, with and without the use of boats.
Collect, or help to collect, samples on sites and keeps them organized during collection.
Provide lab support to the Veterinarian, when the Veterinarian is providing services to the RWU Wet lab.
Administration
Interact and arrange sample submissions with aqua-culturists, regulators, and other Diagnostic Laboratory customers.
Design and present posters and presentations at conferences and help to author peer-reviewed papers and student presentations.
Assist the Manager in supply stocking and ordering.
Additional Functions
Represent the ADL, the Center for Economic & Environmental Development (CEED), and RWU at local and national meetings.
Interact with other non-ADL CEED technicians to help coordinate and accomplish needed CEED based tasks.
Interact with other aquatic professors to accomplish goals as approved by the Veterinarian.
Provide laboratory support to the Manager and/or Veterinarian and other aquatic professors as approved by the Veterinarian.
Communicate and interact with other users of the facility.
***When you join Roger Williams University, you will have access to our outstanding benefit package including: Time off (20 vacation days per year accrued from date of hire, 15 paid holiday, and 15 paid sick days per year), Tuition Benefits, Generous 403(b) match, Professional Development Opportunities, Medical/Dental/Vision insurance offered, Wellness Incentive Program, access to Roger Williams athletic facilities, libraries, campus events and much more!***
Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree in Marine Biology.
Two years of laboratory experience.
Basic knowledge of bivalves/crustacean/fish biology, ecology, shellfish field sampling techniques and aquaculture procedures.
Ability to work accurately and methodically to conduct diagnostic tests and research goals.
Ability to develop recording methods and record detailed data and information and to maintain accurate field notes.
Ability to summarize procedures and scientific findings in written and oral format.
Excellent organization skills to manage time to meet workload and deadline demands.
Able to work independently while maintaining consistent and frequent communication with supervisor, students and co-workers.
Available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends as needed and to travel within the region.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Proficient in MS Office programs and laboratory related software with the ability to create and manipulate data sets.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Biology or Marine Biology.
Some molecular techniques training.
Field data collection experience and work experience, particularly saltwater species.
Ability to analyze and understand simple summary statistics.
Knowledge of computer software including laboratory specific systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
Experience directing students in work tasks and/or projects.
At the University's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be excepted where the candidate can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the University, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Additional Information:
Roger Williams University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable state and federal law. For information on our Non-discrimination policy, visit here.
RWU prohibits all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex in its education programs and activities and is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) and its implementing regulations not to discriminate in such a manner. Complaints of Title IX sexual harassment should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator at the contact information listed below. Details regarding the formal complaint process can be found here: Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures. All complaints of sexual harassment will be taken seriously and responded to promptly. TITLE IX COORDINATOR: Dr. Jen Stanley, 1 Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809 / Phone Number: (401) 254-3123 /Email Address: jstanley@rwu.edu
Salaries for new hires at Roger Williams University usually fall within the minimum and midpoint salary ranges.
$20.06 - $21.95
Application Instructions:
Please attach a resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references. In your cover letter/letter of interest, in addition to listing how your qualifications meet the requirements of the position, please include information about how you would be able to contribute to RWU's diversity, inclusivity, and equity goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
