Sequencing Specialist

This position encompasses the responsibilities described below, building on hands-on experience with the fundamentals of molecular biology experiments (such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning, ligation, and enzymatic reactions including reverse transcription) and an understanding of their underlying principles. Prior experience in advanced sequencing techniques or in the development of new protocols is not required at the time of hiring; we provide an environment in which these skills can be progressively acquired through on-the-job experience, in collaboration with members of the section and the broader project.

Execution of Sequencing Experiments and Development of New Protocols:
Carry out experiments that are difficult to perform reliably with existing methods, starting with DNA extraction as the foundation of sequencing. Concrete examples include constructing and validating sample-preparation protocols that directly determine the quality of sequencing data, such as genomic DNA extraction from unknown species and the technically demanding "Ultra-long DNA extraction." Optimization of techniques and condition settings is conducted through iterative trial and error, in collaboration with members of the section and the broader project.

Documentation of Experiments and Construction/Operation of the Recording Environment:
Document the process of developing new protocols (including the evolution of methods and key decision points) in the form of text, video, audio, and dialogue (Q&A). Construct and operate a standardized recording environment shared across the project. The accumulated records will be used both as educational content for life science experiments and as training data for the development of experimental-support AI tools.

Collaboration with External Experts and Support for Metadata Acquisition:
To expand the AI training-data corpus, support the work of acquiring and organizing metadata that captures the techniques and tacit knowledge of experts from outside OIST. Specific tasks include planning panel discussions with these experts and providing on-site interviewing and experimental assistance. Additional duties include collecting video, audio, and dialogue data through filming and interviews, as well as organizing and editing the collected data (such as adding subtitles and annotations, and linking related metadata). Scheduling and on-site coordination during visits are also part of the role. Prior experience in filming, editing, or related tasks is not required at the time of hiring; we provide an environment for learning alongside members of the section and the broader project as the work proceeds.