Jobs in Genetics:
There are two positions currently availible at the VT Forensic Lab in Waterbury - Both are at least 2 years.
1) mRNA Researcher - BS, MS or PhD (salary commensurate) 2 year National Institute Justice grant, State benefits
The researcher would be isolating mRNA from body fluids and some tissues (blood, semen, urine, saliva, skin, brain..) and then performing real-time PCR for genes specific for those fluids/tissues. The researcher would have to track down what genes those might be and if ABI doesn't already sell a TaqMan set for it, then design one. The plan is to then multiplex the assays either with TaqMan or some other, new or old technology. The researcher would also probably assist with other real-time assays being developed on another grant and also perform convicted offender profiling or DNA extraction.
2) CODIS Manager - BS, MS or PhD (salary commensurate) 2 years but undoubtedly longer
The incumbent selected for hire will manage the convicted offender samples and the State DNA database. This individual will function as the system administrator of the State's Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), and will be responsible for the security of the DNA profile data stored in CODIS as well as quality assurance of the data stored in CODIS. This individual will also be performing DNA analysis, reviewing DNA profiles, working with the database programs and entering data into the National FBI database (CODIS). This requires the individual to have a biology/molecular biology background and be familiar with DNA, PCR and STR profiles (or microsatellites).
This includes a BA/BS in a biology related field, and must include college course work covering the subject areas of genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and training in statistics or population genetics. The person may also work with individuals in the Dept of Corrections to ensure correct and prompt collection of convicted offender samples. The person must be able to pass an in-house background and FBI background check and fulfill the requirements set by the FBI and DNA Advisory Board for database managers.
Any interested parties could contact Janice A. Nicklas, Ph.D. for application instructions.
Janice A. Nicklas, Ph.D.
Research Associate Professor of Pediatrics
University of Vermont
VT Forensic Laboratory
Dept. of Public Safety
103 S. Main St.
Waterbury, VT 05671
TEL 802-244-8788
FAX 802-241-5557
jnicklas@uvm.edu
