O'Connor Lab Research Specialist

We are seeking a Research Specialist to join our environmental surveillance team, which conducts comprehensive air and wastewater monitoring to understand pathogen presence and transmission in congregate settings.

About the role

Working under the supervision of the principal investigators and senior lab scientists, you will lead field operations of our environmental monitoring program in Wisconsin. This role combines fieldwork at community sites with laboratory analysis and data preparation for scientific publication.

• Field operations responsibilities include organizing and maintaining air sampling equipment, conducting routine sample collection at schools, hospitals, and other partner sites, and coordinating with facility staff to maintain professional relationships at sampling locations.
• In the laboratory, you will process air samples for nucleic acid extraction and prepare samples for pathogen testing under the supervision of senior scientists, as well as perform routine laboratory maintenance and quality control procedures.
• Research support duties involve assisting in data analysis and preparation for publication, contributing to ongoing research projects, and maintaining detailed records and documentation.

This position requires onsite work at a designated campus location. A valid driver’s license is required; employees may use their own transportation or receive approval for University Car Fleet usage. Employment is conditional pending the results of a Pre-hire Driver Authorization Check.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a subject matter expert and unit liaison, providing updates on project components and timelines to stakeholders.
• Develop and facilitate research-specific presentations to internal and external audiences.
• Direct the day-to-day activities of staff and resolve routine personnel issues.
• Assist with the design, monitoring, and execution of project-specific experiments, identifying and resolving technical issues.
• Assist with the development and auditing of project-specific budgets.
• Develop operating policies and procedures to comply with regulations, institutional policies, and unit objectives.

Qualifications

Required:

• Experience with research databases.
• Experience in designing and conducting experiments.
• Experience in data collection and analysis.
• Experience working with community partners.

Preferred:

• Demonstrated accuracy and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred, with a focus in immunology, virology, microbiology, or a related field. Those with an MPH are encouraged to apply.

About the department

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is dedicated to high-quality patient care, impactful research, and teaching the next generation of pathologists and scientists. We emphasize a healthy work-life balance and provide a supportive work environment committed to growth and advancement. Our vibrant clinical department integrates anatomic pathology, laboratory medicine, teaching, and research, serving UW, American Family Children’s, VA, and other Madison hospitals.

Our research programs have made fundamental discoveries in cell and stem cell biology, immunology, neuroscience, and infectious disease. Educational opportunities include a T32-funded PhD graduate program, pathology resident and fellowship programs, and both medical school and undergraduate curricula.

Madison, often rated as one of the best places to live in America, is built on an isthmus surrounded by lakes, blending city, campus, and green spaces.

Pay

The starting salary for the position is $63,697 annually, negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Competitive insurance and savings accounts.
• Retirement benefits.

For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.