NONDUKE STUDENT/INTERN

Be You.

Duke's Molecular Genetics and Microbiology has an immediate opening for an undergraduate non - Duke student in the Wastewater Field Sampling & Processing lab.

Requires current study as an undergraduate science student.

Be Bold.

Position Description:

The Student Research Assistant will support time-sensitive wastewater field sampling and initial sample handling/processing for two active dietary wastewater research awards (Swann Lee and Schmidt Sciences). This role is essential to maintaining a strict sampling schedule, ensuring chain-of-custody and sample integrity, and preparing samples for downstream DNA-based analyses. The position works as part of a Duke student field sampling team and follows established lab and safety SOPs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

A. Field Sampling & Site Operations

• Collect wastewater samples on a fixed schedule (including early morning and/or time-sensitive pickups as needed).
• Support deployment, retrieval, and basic maintenance of sampling materials (e.g., sample containers, coolers, labels, PPE; and when applicable, autosampler accessories per SOP).
• Verify sampling location, date/time, and sampling conditions; document deviations and issues in real time.
• Maintain a clean, organized field workflow that minimizes contamination risk.

B. Sample Handling, Transport, and Preservation

• Label samples using project-approved conventions and verify identifiers against the sampling plan.
• Maintain temperature control (e.g., ice packs/coolers) and transport samples promptly to the processing location.
• Follow chain-of-custody documentation requirements and ensure secure handling during transport.
• Perform receipt checks upon arrival (volume, labeling, container integrity, temperature notes) and communicate problems immediately.

C. Initial Processing (Per SOP)

• Perform basic processing steps required immediately after collection (e.g., aliquoting, mixing/homogenization steps, preparing subsamples, adding preservatives if applicable, packaging for storage) under supervision and SOP guidance.
• Prepare samples for short-term storage or handoff to lab staff (e.g., staging for -20/-80C storage or same-day processing).
• Clean and disinfect work areas and reusable supplies per safety procedures.

D. Documentation & Data Entry

• Enter required metadata into the designated tracker (e.g., date/time, site, sampler ID, volume, storage location, anomalies).
• Maintain clear records of sample transfers and storage locations to support auditability and downstream analysis.
• Report sampling/processing issues promptly (missing supplies, labeling conflicts, suspected contamination, equipment problems).

E. Team Coordination & Reliability

• Coordinate logistics with the field sampling team lead (schedule changes, route planning, supply restocking).
• Participate in brief check-ins and adhere to weekly sampling coverage plans.
• Provide coverage for planned absences when possible and give advance notice for schedule conflicts.

Required Qualifications

• Current enrollment at a community college (or equivalent), eligible to work in the role as a non-Duke student.
• Dependable transportation and ability to travel to sampling sites and Duke facilities as required.
• Ability to follow detailed SOPs, maintain accurate records, and communicate clearly with the team.
• Ability to lift/carry field supplies (e.g., coolers) and stand/walk for extended periods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with lab or field sampling, sterile/clean handling, or environmental sample collection.
• Comfort working with biological/environmental materials while using PPE.
• Experience with basic data entry and using shared trackers (Excel/Sheets or similar).

Training and Compliance

• Complete required safety training (as applicable) prior to independent work (PPE, biosafety, waste handling, lab/field safety).
• Work will be performed under the supervision of the project lead/designee and in accordance with lab and institutional safety policies.

Work Schedule / Expectations

• Work hours aligned with fixed sampling days and time-sensitive processing needs (may include early morning start times).
• High reliability is required due to strict sampling frequency and time-to-processing constraints.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Choose Duke.

Join our award-winning team as identified by Forbes magazine as America's Best Large Employer 2024 and be part of an inclusive culture that values excellence, innovation, and discovery. As an organization, we have exciting opportunities to be forward-thinking leaders in our field. We want talented individuals to join us, examine our current operations, and create innovative solutions that will revolutionize and enhance the way we approach our work.

Duke University is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide and is renowned for its cutting-edge research across disciplines.