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Position Title:Diagnostic Associate I - Bioinformatics

Job Group:Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree

Preferred Qualifications:Degree in Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Genomics or related field.

Experience with Sanger sequencing data analysis, sequence assembly tools, and phylogenetic tree construction.

Familiarity with quality assurance standards and diagnostic laboratory workflows.

Previous experience working in a high-throughput molecular diagnostics or public health laboratory.

Experience with conventional PCR and/or real-time PCR assay methods.

Experience in data interpretation, including assessment of amplification curves assessment and QC troubleshooting.

Job Description:

Are you passionate about bioinformatics and molecular diagnostics?

We’re seeking a detail-driven and analytical Diagnostic Associates to support our molecular diagnostics program with a strong emphasis on bioinformatics and sequencing. This role is perfect for someone skilled in sequence analysis, data interpretation, and molecular assay workflows, who enjoys working in a collaborative, diagnostic, and service-aligned laboratory environment.

What You’ll Do:

+ Analyze Sanger sequencing data, assemble raw sequences, and create phylogenetic trees for diagnostic and surveillance purposes.

+ Perform bioinformatic analysis in support of USDA and NAHLN testing protocols, including pathogen detection and variant tracking.

+ Execute molecular laboratory techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, gel-based PCR, and real-time PCR to support sequencing pipelines.

+ Conduct quality control checks on sequencing and molecular assay results, troubleshoot data anomalies, and ensure test accuracy.

+ Collaborate with diagnostic associates, faculty researchers, veterinary submitters and federal partners to support surveillance efforts and research projects.

This is a Full time, regular position. Work Schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

About the Department:

Our molecular diagnostics and bioinformatics laboratory plays a critical role in state and national animal health surveillance and diagnosis of clinical disease. In collaboration with programs like USDA and NAHLN, we apply advanced molecular and sequencing techniques to ensure timely and accurate diagnostic reporting. The department encourages professional development, technical innovation, and providing service to stakeholders in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Level Guidelines• Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision• Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode• Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope• Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained• Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate• May lead projects of limited scope and complexity• May provide guidance to students

Appointment Type:Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period

Time Type:Full time

Pay Grade:PS806

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae2) Letter of Application/Cover LetterIf you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.Why Choose ISU?Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)• Life insurance and long-term disability• Flexible Spending Accounts• Various voluntary benefits and discounts• Employee Assistance Program• Wellbeing program• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

Original Posting Date: May 1, 2025

Posting Close Date:May 14, 2025

Job Requisition Number:R16968

By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive land-grant mission of education, research, extension and outreach, we produce scholars whose ideas change the world. And through Innovate at Iowa State , we provide innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities.

Iowa State University is a welcoming community of students, faculty, and staff. Campus community members have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to engaging with each other respectfully as outlined in the university's Principles of Community (https://www.iastate.edu/diversity-and-inclusion/principles-community) . Iowa State recognizes that diverse intellectual and philosophical perspectives are vital to innovation, critical thinking skills, and a dynamic academic community that fosters the land-grant ideals of putting science, technology, and human creativity to work.

All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check.

Iowa State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against. Inquiries can be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, 515 294-7612, email [email protected] .

If you have questions about the application process please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll-Free at 1-877-477-7485 . Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email [email protected] or call (515) 294-4800 or Toll-Free: (877) 477-7485 . TTY users are welcome to use the Iowa Relay Service number by dialing 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2942 .

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources (https://www.hr.iastate.edu/careers/compensation) website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.