Sr Laboratory Specialist
Sr Laboratory Specialist
Job Summary
The Tavtigian lab is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Laboratory Specialist with advanced expertise in library preparation and hybrid capture for Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology and genetics, with hands-on experience in NGS workflows. The candidate should have an understanding of custom capture design and optimization.
As a critical member of the Center for Cancer Genetics team, you will be responsible for performing highly-complex laboratory procedures involved in the preparation of high-quality sequencing libraries and captures with a custom-designed panel. You will be expected to troubleshoot protocols and assist in method development. As this position also requires the management of a large collection of samples, previous experience in LIMS is preferred.
Huntsman Cancer Institute is committed to cancer prevention, care, and survivorship for all communities within the area we serve - which includes Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming - with impact worldwide.
In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional experiences have prepared you to serve as a member of our team as we work to reduce the cancer burden experienced by all people and communities. This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical care, community engagement/outreach, training, administration, or other areas relevant to Huntsman Cancer Institute's mission and this position
Responsibilities
- Perform high-quality NGS library preparation, including DNA extraction, fragmentation, end repair, adapter ligation, and amplification.
- Execute hybridization-based target capture protocols for custom panels.
- Assist in design and evaluation of custom capture panels, working in collaboration with bioinformaticians and project leads to ensure optimal design coverage and performance.
- Optimize and troubleshoot library prep and capture protocols to improve yield, uniformity, and on-target rates.
- Accurately document procedures, deviations, and results in laboratory information systems (LIMS) and electronic lab notebooks.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment, following all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality guidelines.
- Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and functioning.
- Support method development, protocol validation, and process scaling as needed.
- Contribute to research papers and publications as appropriate.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:Nearly Continuously: Office environment.Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be requiredNearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience), plus four years of related full-time laboratory experience required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
- B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology, with at least 2 years specifically focused on NGS library preparation and hybrid capture.
- Proficiency with a variety of NGS platforms.
- Strong understanding of custom capture probe design principles, including target selection, GC content considerations, and repetitive element avoidance.
- Familiarity with laboratory automation (e.g., liquid handling robots) is strongly preferred.
- Excellent pipetting technique, attention to detail, and commitment to producing high-quality data.
- Strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Special Instructions
Requisition Number: PRN43341B
Full Time or Part Time? Part Time
Work Schedule Summary:
Department: 01402 - HCI Sean Tavtigian Lab
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: 39300 to 72700
Close Date: 1/16/2026
Open Until Filled:
To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/190590
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