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Position Details

Position Information

Requisition Number

S4747P

Home Org Name

Schl Fisheries Aquac Aquat Sci

Division Name

College of Agriculture

Position Title

Research Associate (Environmental DNA Lab Data Analyst)

Job Class Code

HA02 B/C/D

Appointment Status

Full-time

Part-time FTE

Limited Term

Yes

Limited Term Length

1 year; continuation contingent upon funding and performance in the position

Job Summary

The School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences at Auburn University is seeking a Research Associate for a full-time position in the environmentalDNA (eDNA) lab operated by Dr. Jessica Rieder. This position focuses on analyzing eDNA data, particularly for invasive species surveillance as part of the Department of the Interior’s (DOI ) Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR ) Framework and the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Branch of Hatchery Operations and Applied Science (Branch). This is a full-time, soft-money position that is funded for at least one year, with the potential for renewal. The primary focus of this position is to assist Auburn and federal biologists in analyzing eDNA data. The project collaborates with the eDNA genetic lab at Auburn and other federal labs to implement an eDNA invasive species monitoring as part of the DOI’sEDRR Framework.

Essential Functions

+ Analyze diverse ‘omic datasets, including quantitativePCR (qPCR), metabarcoding, and potentially metagenomics, with a solid understanding of statistical methods for interpreting population genetic and sequence data.

+ Design, implement, and maintain bioinformatics pipelines using Python and/or R, incorporating Git version control and Unix/Linux command-line tools for efficient data processing and workflow management.

+ Provide data support toMLN and QA/QC data entry for the existingEDRR eDNA Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS ) built using multiple software platforms, including ArcGIS Experience Builder, Excel, andSurvey123.

+ Support the development and regular revision of Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including annual protocol updates forMLN operations.

+ Maintain detailed records and consistently follow established SOPs.

+ Serve as the primary liaison for data management and analysis among theLIMS project team, the Branch, Molecular Lab Network (including the Surveillance Labs and Implementation Science Support Lab), facilitating communication and coordination.

+ Generate project-specific reports, contribute to annualMLN reports, and assist in preparing scientific manuscripts and presentations.

+ Work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams in a dynamic research environment.

+ Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and perform other duties as needed to support eDNA research and laboratory operations.

Why Work at Auburn?

+ **Life-Changing Impact** : Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.

+ **Culture of Excellence** : We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.

+ **We’re Here for You** : Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.

+ **Sweet Home Alabama** : The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.

+ **A Place for Everyone** : Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

**Research Associate II:** Master’s degree and 2 years of experience in data analysis and protocols relevant to the position.

**Research AssociateIII :** Master’s degree and 4 years of experience in data analysis and protocols relevant to the position.

**Research Associate IV:** Master’s degree and 6 years of experience in data analysis protocols relevant to the position.

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities

Experience with single-assay qPCR eDNA lab work is required.

Minimum Technology Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and perform other duties as needed to support eDNA research and laboratory operations.

Minimum License and Certifications

Desired Qualifications

Desired Qualifications

Desired qualifications include the following:

+ Master’s or Ph.D. in bioinformatics, molecular ecology, genetics, computational biology, or a closely related field.

+ **eDNA Workflow Expertise:** Strong theoretical knowledge and/or hands-on experience with eDNA workflows, with an understanding of how each step, from field collection to bioinformatics, can impact data quality and interpretation.

+ **Data Analysis Experience:** Experience analyzing qPCR, metabarcoding, or shotgun metagenomics datasets using appropriate statistical and bioinformatic tools.

+ **Workflow Automation:** Proficiency with workflow management tools such as Snakemake, with the ability to build, automate, and manage reproducible data analysis pipelines.

+ **Open Science Commitment:** Demonstrated commitment to open science principles, including reproducible research practices, code and data sharing, and transparency in scientific processes.

+ **Motivation and Adaptability:** Self-driven, enthusiastic, and eager to acquire new skills or explore emerging areas in molecular ecology and bioinformatics.

+ **Scientific Literacy:** Working knowledge of applied conservation genetics and related fields, such as fish biology, aquatic ecology, and ecosystem monitoring to support informed decision-making.

Posting Detail Information

Salary Range

$44,450 - $96,230

Job Category

Research

Working Hours if Non-Traditional

City position is located in:

Auburn

State position is located:

Alabama

List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position

Posting Date

09/11/2025

Closing Date

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit theirwebsite (https://auburn.edu/administration/eoc/) to learn more.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please utilize the attachment feature of the on-line application system and attach a cover letter and CV or resume. When prompted, please enter the contact information for three professional references. OnlyCOMPLETE application materials will be considered.

Quick Link for Internal Postings

https://www.auemployment.com/postings/55912

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

1. Resume

2. Cover Letter

Optional Documents