O'Connor Lab Research Specialist

We are seeking a Research Specialist to join our team sequencing environmental samples for up to 240 different human pathogens. Working under the supervision of the principal investigators and senior laboratory scientists, the ideal candidate will assist with experimental scheduling and organization, sample processing and archiving, sequencing samples, and data analysis and preparation for scientific publication. These technical responsibilities require attention to detail, careful documentation, and adherence to established protocols for sample handling and processing. This position involves collaborating with the team on projects that study pathogens in the environment, collected through air sampling, wastewater, or other methods of environmental sampling, working in the laboratories of Drs. David and Shelby O'Connor. Additionally, some samples may be derived from patient samples. The day-to-day responsibilities of this role include experimental organization and scheduling, processing samples according to established laboratory protocols, assisting with molecular assays, documenting experiments, managing samples and metadata, interpreting results, and communicating findings to colleagues and collaborators. In addition to responsibilities specific to this position, the candidate will also contribute to and perform routine laboratory maintenance and quality control measures and procedures to ensure data integrity and equipment functionality. Furthermore, the candidate will contribute to other laboratory needs as time permits.

• This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.

• Must provide a valid driver's license. 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. See https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/#become-authorized-driver (click on "Become an authorized driver;" then click on "Required criteria").

• Candidates who demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities will be given first consideration: a background in bioinformatics or python scripting.

• Performs literature reviews and writes reports

• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers

• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials

• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences

• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders

• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, O'Connor Lab

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is dedicated to the highest quality patient care, cutting-edge and 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 the growth and advancement of our members. Our vibrant clinical department integrates anatomic pathology, laboratory medicine, teaching, and a robust research enterprise, and serves the UW, American Family Children's, VA, and other Madison hospitals. Our basic science and translational research programs have made fundamental discoveries in cell and stem cell biology, immunology, neuroscience, and infectious disease. Opportunities in education 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. The city, campus, green spaces and urban areas are blended to create a place unlike any other.

The starting salary for the position is $44,543 annually; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

• SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

• Experience in designing and conducting experiments.

• Experience in data collection and analysis.

• Experience with written and verbal scientific communication.

• Experience with line driving coding, in particular python and other useful bioinformatics languages.

Bachelor's degree preferred; focus in immunology, microbiology, virology, or a related field is preferred.

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To apply for this position, select either "I am a current employee" or "I am not a current employee" under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials.

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Upload required documents:
* Cover letter
* Resume

Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected

University sponsorship is not available for this position, including transfers of sponsorship and TN visas. The selected applicant will be responsible for ensuring their continuous eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. This position is an ongoing position that will require continuous work eligibility. If you are selected for this position you must provide proof of work authorization and eligibility to work.

Tia Seguin, tia.seguin@wisc.edu, 608-263-3731

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The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

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