Scientist I/II

The University of Wisconsin System seeks a Scientist I/II for the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene in Madison, WI. The role focuses on environmental molecular biology, particularly wastewater surveillance for pathogens like SARS-CoV-2. Responsibilities include developing analyses, promoting microbial source tracking, collaborating with health agencies, and pursuing grant proposals. A PhD and three years of experience in a related field are required. This position is not remote.
About the position

The Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) is seeking a Scientist I/II with a strong background in environmental molecular biology to contribute to innovative scientific research aimed at safeguarding public and environmental health. This position is integral to our dynamic wastewater surveillance team, which has been at the forefront of tracking SARS-CoV-2 across Wisconsin since 2020. As a recognized National Wastewater Surveillance System Center of Excellence by the CDC, WSLH leads one of the largest monitoring efforts in the country. The successful candidate will not only focus on SARS-CoV-2 but will also expand the scope of surveillance to include other significant targets such as influenza, RSV, norovirus, and antibiotic-resistant genes. The Scientist will be responsible for developing new analyses and sequencing approaches to enhance the utility of wastewater surveillance, thereby contributing to public health initiatives. In addition to wastewater surveillance, the Scientist will play a crucial role in advancing microbial source tracking (MST) techniques, which are essential for identifying and mitigating contamination risks in water sources. This work is vital for improving water quality and public health outcomes. The position also involves collaboration with university researchers, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, and the CDC, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to environmental microbiology. The Scientist will be expected to pursue Federal Competitive Grant Proposals as a Principal Investigator (PI) in collaboration with other researchers at UW-Madison and to develop a scholarly publication record based on the research activities conducted at WSLH. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on public health through cutting-edge scientific research and innovation. The successful candidate will be expected to utilize quality management principles in their daily work, demonstrating exceptional customer service and maintaining effective professional relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. They will provide constructive feedback to support continuous improvement and will be involved in data collection and analysis. Effective teamwork and participation in professional development activities are also key components of this position.

Responsibilities
• Develop analyses for new targets and sequencing approaches to enhance wastewater surveillance.
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• Promote microbial source tracking (MST) techniques to identify and mitigate contamination risks in water sources.
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• Collaborate with university researchers, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, and the CDC on various projects.
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• Pursue Federal Competitive Grant Proposals as a Principal Investigator (PI) in collaboration with other researchers at UW-Madison.
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• Develop a scholarly publication record based on research activities at WSLH.
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• Utilize quality management principles in daily work and demonstrate exceptional customer service.
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• Participate in continuous learning through professional development activities.

Requirements
• PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Environmental Science or related field.
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• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a professional or academic setting.
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• Experience with molecular methods including nucleic acid extraction, purification, PCR design, and next-generation sequencing.
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• Proficiency in bioinformatics and quality control procedures.
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• A record of peer-reviewed publications.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience working with wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE).
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• Knowledge of methods for isolation of viruses, bacteria, parasites, and potential emerging pathogens from environmental sources.
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• Familiarity with statistical methodologies and tools, particularly R.
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• Experience with laboratory automation, e.g., liquid handling instruments.

Benefits
• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
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• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
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• Collaborative work environment with access to cutting-edge research facilities.