Research Assistant Biology

Ursinus College • Collegeville, PA

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About The Position

The Department of Biology at Ursinus College seeks a full-time assistant to conduct research in the area of soil ecology beginning December 1, 2025. The research assistant will work with Dr. Denise Finney, Associate Professor of Biology, to conduct field and laboratory experiments, train and supervise undergraduate researchers, and perform routine laboratory maintenance. This is a one-year USDA grant-funded position.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Soil Science, or related field required
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques in plant or soil science required
• Basic computing skills required
• Comfort working outdoors required
• Excellent interpersonal, trouble-shooting, organizational, and communication skills required

Responsibilities

• Coordinate soil sample collection from working farms
• Collect and perform elemental analyses on plant and soil samples
• Initiate and maintain soil laboratory incubations involving stable isotopes
• Conduct laboratory assays to characterize and quantify soil microbial communities
• Supervise, train, and assist undergraduate researchers
• Stock consumable materials required for research in the laboratory
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of the laboratory space and equipment
• Manage safety issues in field and laboratory settings to ensure a clean and safe working environment and coordinate waste disposal

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level