Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Technician
Title: Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Technician
Location: Bristol, RI
Category: Professional and Clerical
Job Type: Full-time Regular
Posted On: Tue Jun 16 2026
Job Description:
Reporting to the Director of the Center Economic & Environmental Development (CEED), and under the supervision of the Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory (ADL) director and veterinarian, the Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory Technician is responsible for assisting all ADL managers with diagnostics, research, and Histology, using good laboratory practices to process and conduct diagnostic testing methods, maintain specific diagnostic protocols, and conduct testing to a high standard of accomplishment. The Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory TechnicianTechnician assists in the general maintenance of the aquatics laboratory and assists with maintaining bivalves, crustacean, and fish and health of all species within the laboratory and in different locations where animals may be kept.
This is a three-year salaried, non-tenured position. The selected candidate must commit to the full three-year term. Performance will be evaluated after the first year, with continued appointment contingent upon a satisfactory review.
Field and Laboratory Operations
Assist in receiving, processing and conducting diagnostic tests (quantitative PCR, PCR, PCR, necropsies, etc.) on bivalves and fish submitted to the laboratory for disease testing from aqua-culturists, regulators, and others.
Assist in receiving, processing and conducting diagnostic tests for histology on bivalves and fish submitted to the laboratory for disease testing from aqua-culturists, regulators, and others.
Assemble resulting data in summaries both written and graphed reports.
Maintain the proper collection and disposal of waste generated in the laboratory and consult with the Laboratory Manager to ensure safe disposal.
Conduct and assist in conducting research, methodically collect and record data, and assemble resulting data in summaries (written and graphed reports) to report research-based data to the Lab Manager and ADL director.
Help analyze, develop, and refine diagnostic test methods used in the laboratory.
Under the guidance of the Manager and Veterinarian, directly supervise and train students working in the diagnostic laboratory in appropriate diagnostic and research procedures, and help student development of new research protocols.
Sampling and Data Collection
Maintain proper records of all incoming samples and resulting data, using computer-generated filing program.
Maintain proper storage and records of physical materials, including, but not limited to, slides, blocks, frozen tissue, and photographs.
Make sample collection trips and site visits, to various aquaculture leases (both intertidal and subtidal), and other aquatic facilities, in various types of weather conditions, with and without the use of boats.
Collect, or help to collect, samples on sites and keeps them organized during collection.
Provide lab support to the IACUC veterinarian and consultant and service provider Veterinarian, when that Veterinarian is providing services to the RWU lab animals.
Administration
Interact and arrange sample submissions with aquaculturists, regulators, and other diagnostic laboratory customers.
Design and present posters and presentations at conferences and help to author peer-reviewed papers and student presentations.
Assist the Manager in supply stocking and ordering.
Additional Functions
Must attend all Aquatic Diagnostic Lab and Center Economic & Environmental Development (CEED) meetings, conferences and tours, and/or accompany visits to the ADL and or CEED.
Represent the ADL, the Center for Economic & Environmental Development (CEED), and RWU at local and national meetings.
Interact with other non-ADL CEED technicians to help coordinate and accomplish needed CEED based tasks. Interact with other aquatic professors to accomplish goals as approved by the directors.
Provide laboratory support to all manager and/or Veterinarian and other aquatic professors as approved by the ADL director.
Communicate and interact with other users of the facility.
This is a grant-funded position that is contingent upon the existence and availability of external funding
Job Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology or Biology.
Two years of laboratory experience, molecular biology experience preferred.
Basic knowledge of bivalves/crustacean/fish biology, ecology, shellfish field sampling techniques and aquaculture procedures.
Ability to work accurately and methodically to conduct diagnostic tests and research goals.
Excellent organization, writing, data management, record keeping, time management, and communication skills.
Ability to work with and instruct ADL students in the lab and field. Ability to develop recording methods and record detailed data and information and to maintain accurate field notes.
Ability to summarize procedures and scientific findings in written and oral format.
Excellent organization skills to manage time to meet workload and deadline demands.
Able to work independently while maintaining consistent and frequent communication with supervisors, students and co-workers.
Available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends as needed and to travel within the region.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Proficient in MS Office programs and laboratory related software with the ability to create and manipulate data sets.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in biology or marine biology. Some molecular techniques training.
Field data collection experience and work experience, particularly saltwater species.
Ability to analyze and understand simple summary statistics.
Knowledge of computer software including laboratory specific systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
Experience directing students in work tasks and/or projects.
At the University's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be accepted where the candidate can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the University, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Additional Information:
This is a three-year salaried, non-tenured position. The selected candidate must commit to the full three-year term. Performance will be evaluated after the first year, with continued appointment contingent upon a satisfactory review.
Roger Williams University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other basis protected by applicable state and federal law. For information on our Non-discrimination policy, visit .
RWU prohibits all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex in its education programs and activities and is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) and its implementing regulations not to discriminate in such a manner. Complaints of Title IX sexual harassment should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator at the contact information listed below. Details regarding the formal complaint process can be found here: . All complaints of sexual harassment will be taken seriously and responded to promptly. TITLE IX COORDINATOR: Dr. Jen Stanley, 1 Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809 / Phone Number: (401) 254-3123 /Email Address:
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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