Lab Manager/Research Assistant II
Michigan State University’s Walker lab is recruiting a full-time Research Assistant in the Plant Research Laboratory. This role will be integral to maintaining a cutting-edge facility for studying photosynthesis in plants through molecular, biochemical, and gas-exchange-based approaches.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine laboratory tasks such as media preparation and molecular work
- Conduct biochemical analysis, light field work, and other primary research duties
- Manage lab inventory and accounting
- Establish and maintain a Wiki outlining standard protocols and operations for the lab
- Ensure proper waste management, chemical labeling, and storage
- Serve as a contact to orient students and researchers with lab and department resources
- Assist in lab and field sampling and biochemical/molecular analysis
- Troubleshoot gas exchange instrumentation
- Maintain stocks of autoclaved reagents and laboratory supplies
- Review primary literature for developing essays and preparing work for publication
Requirements
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related science field.
Three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in:
- Overseeing research projects and laboratory operations
- Operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment
- Performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques
- Designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed
- Using software specific to the area of research (if required)
Willingness to learn about safety compliance and procedures for the lab.
Qualifications
- Experience with enzymology or protein expression/purification
- Experience in lab compliance and safety procedures
- Experience troubleshooting instrumentation
Schedule
Standard 8 AM – 5 PM.
This is an end-dated position funded for one year from the start date, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.