Research Assistant

Texas A&M Agrilife Research • College Station, TX

36d • Onsite

About The Position

Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. As the nation’s largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service. This position is for a research assistant who performs skilled, administrative, and managerial support in research. Plans and directs certain phases in a research project.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Entomology or closely related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Knowledge of laboratory maintenance and equipment.
• Knowledge of computers and computer software related to the position.
• Research experience/training in molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Nice To Haves

• Preferred experience in insect physiology/biochemistry/genetics.

Responsibilities

• Perform rearing activities and/or genetic crosses with arthropods in a contained laboratory environment.
• Assist with the performance of genetic, proteomic, transcriptomic, imaging, biochemical and/or physiological experiments to elucidate factors critical for important insect traits (digestion, feeding, development, reproduction, DNA repair, etc..).
• Collection of data and keeping of detailed records of results, as well as utilizing computer programs and databases to conduct analyses.
• Preparation of media, insect diet, rearing containers, etc...
• Cleaning/washing of lab materials, insect cages or other materials as needed.
• Other duties as required.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

What This Job Offers

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