Research Assistant

University of Maine System • Orono, ME

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a research assistant position in the School of Biology and Ecology at the University of Maine with the Tan lab. Responsibilities focus primarily on activities of plant genetics laboratory at the University of Maine and as part of NSF-DBT synthetic biology research project, although the research assistant will perform duties pertaining to other grant funded projects. The research assistant conducts laboratory- and field-based scientific research following established protocols, organizes and manages data, gives presentations for scientific and lay audiences, and assists in preparing scientific publications. Much of these tasks are completed in coordination with other members of the lab, including a Postdoctoral Fellow, Research Associate and faculty supervisors.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, plant sciences, biological sciences, botany, or other related field, and at least one year of molecular biology, plant care, and greenhouse experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience conducting laboratory and field work.
• Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in teams with students, research associates, and the faculty supervisor.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in microscopy, histology and cytology in preparation of chromosome spreads from roots, and meiotic spreads from Arabidopsis germlines.
• Previous experience in molecular biology such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, RT-qPCR, data analysis and microscopy techniques.
• Previous experience conducting research in plant genetics including plant tissue culture, greenhouse maintenance and associated field work.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory- and field-based scientific research following established protocols.
• Organize and manage data.
• Give presentations for scientific and lay audiences.
• Assist in preparing scientific publications.
• Perform duties pertaining to grant funded projects.

Benefits

• Tuition benefits (employee and dependent)
• Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability
• Retirement plan options

What This Job Offers

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