Research Assistant - Molecular Microbiology

Location: Saint Louis, MO 63110

Scheduled Hours: 40

About the role

The Feldman Lab is a dynamic and collaborative environment focused on two primary research projects: the pathobiology of the opportunistic pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii and the biogenesis of outer membrane vesicles in Bacteroides species. Our technical expertise spans basic microbiology, molecular biology, cell culture, murine infection models, and protein purification, among other areas. The position assists and plays a vital role with research study, experiments, preparation of material, and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Assist with research studies, experiments, and assays by following established protocols, performing experiments, and collecting and documenting data.
• Prepare microbiological media, buffers, solutions, antibiotics, and other laboratory materials, including supplies required for small animal procedures.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date inventories of chemicals, reagents, plastics, and other laboratory supplies; monitor stock levels and initiate purchases as needed.
• Assist with general laboratory equipment setup, operation, and routine maintenance.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and required documentation related to experiments, specimens, equipment, and laboratory conditions.
• Support laboratory safety and biosafety compliance, including maintaining an up-to-date chemical inventory and required safety documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in accordance with established protocols.
• Assist with general laboratory management and other duties necessary to support the research activities of the laboratory.

Working Conditions

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.
• 2 years of laboratory operations experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively and interact professionally with laboratory members, investigators, and other personnel.
• Experience with bacterial culture and aseptic technique.
• Experience or demonstrated interest in microbiology, molecular biology, cell culture, protein purification, or protein biochemistry.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and adapt to changing laboratory needs.
• Dependable, proactive, and committed to maintaining high standards of laboratory organization, safety, and documentation.

Skills

• Cell Cultures
• Document Research
• Interpersonal Communication
• Laboratory Processes
• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology
• Multitasking
• Organizing
• Protein Biochemistry
• Protein Purifications
• Scientific Research
• Working Independently

Pay

Salary Range: $17.10 - $29.09 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Benefits

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, combining employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more.

Family

• 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child.
• Family care resources for continued childcare needs.
• Adult care resources available.
• Tuition coverage for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years.