Research Associate

Boise State University, powered by creativity and innovation, stands uniquely positioned in the Northwest as a metropolitan research university of distinction. Learn more about Boise State and the City of Boise at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/

Boise State University is building an inclusive community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, cultural contributions, work history, and perspectives create a rich and rewarding academic experience for our students. Research demonstrates that people thrive when they feel welcome, respected, and inspired. We seek applicants who are committed to helping us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Applications from members of historically marginalized groups, including women, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who have served in the military, and members of other underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged.

A Research Associate/Lab Manager position is available in Dr. Leonora Bittleston’s lab (www.bittlestonlab.com) at Boise State University in Boise, ID. The successful applicant will contribute to a project exploring how different ecological mechanisms influence coexistence in aquatic microbial communities and will assist with training, mentoring, budgets, lab organization, and ordering supplies. The position includes benefits and a competitive salary and will be funded for a year with the possibility of extension beyond that time.

The Bittleston lab is dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable environment where all members feel safe and supported in all aspects of their identity. We recognize that science, academia, and our society are improved by the integration of diverse perspectives, and we encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to open and inclusive working environments.

Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision. Exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance, assistance, and training to entry-level professionals, support employees, and students

60% of Time the Research Associate

• Assist with experimental design and the collection, analysis, and reporting of data
• Run laboratory experiments using microbial cultures in sterile conditions
• Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for instruments and protocols
• Train and mentor others in the use of research-related protocols, SOPs, and instrumentation
• Order supplies and maintain laboratory inventories
• Organize and update laboratory budgets and keep records of purchases
• Analyze and graph data in R
• Help write results for peer-reviewed publications
• Maintain instrumentation, as applicable, related to field or laboratory research
• May be involved in designing certain aspects of research projects. Independently conducts work complementary to the overall research objectives.

35% of Time the Research Associate may:

• Provide technical support to researchers
• Coordinate with research partners and vendors
• Assist dissemination of project results through reports, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications

5% of Time the Research Associate

• Perform other duties as assigned

Basic

• Working knowledge of scientific principles, research design, and research protocols, including analysis and collection of samples
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to perform laboratory work, including experiments in microbial ecology
• Ability to learn new skills with an appropriate amount of training
• Ability to develop working relationships with research partners and vendors
• Advocate for safety and ethics in the workplace
• Experience with conducting outreach

Preferred

• Excellent attention to detail
• Excellent writing and communication skills

Requires a minimum of Master's or equivalent degree, or Bachelor's or equivalent degree, plus at least 2 years of post-Bachelor's work experience in a role that is similar to that of a Research Assistant.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Microbiology experience with both culturing and nucleic acid approaches
• Bioinformatics experience, including the ability to analyze data in R
• Experience with financial budgets

Annual Salary of $52,000. Boise State University is committed to offering a benefits package that provides health and financial protection plans as well as resources to promote health and well-being. Our program provides flexibility so you can choose the benefits that are right for you and your family. Learn more about our benefit options at https://www.boisestate.edu/hrs/benefits/.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Three Professional References