Research Associate II – Molecular Assays (Full‑time)

About the role

The University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, together with the Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies, seeks a full‑time Research Associate II to develop molecular assays that support fisheries and biodiversity monitoring. The position is based at NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory in Miami and combines hands‑on molecular biology work with occasional bioinformatics tasks.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and optimize quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays for environmental DNA samples.
• Extract DNA from a variety of environmental specimens and prepare them for sequencing.
• Perform PCR and qPCR, operate sensitive laboratory equipment, and maintain rigorous lab safety and regulatory procedures.
• Document experimental work in detailed lab notebooks and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications.
• Assist in training personnel on optimized protocols and support collaborative projects with NOAA and CIMAS scientists.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, marine science, or a related field.
• Minimum two years of experience in a molecular biology laboratory or equivalent graduate training.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, adapt, and implement new laboratory procedures and solve technical problems.

Required skills

• Quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay development.
• DNA extraction from environmental samples.
• Standard PCR techniques.
• Preparation of DNA libraries for sequencing.
• Operation of complex laboratory equipment and basic bioinformatics analysis.