Research Assistant

Berkeley Lab’s () Joint Genome Institute (JGI) has an opening for a Research Assistant to join the NewLeaf Symbiotics Strategic Partnership, a new microbiome strategic partnership project.

The research will characterize methanotrophic bacteria and their beneficial interactions with rice plants in reducing methane emissions and promoting plant growth.

In this exciting role, you will assist with running established protocols that will enable microbiome sequencing, metabolic analysis, and maintain plant and bacterial cultures in plant-microbe experiments within a laboratory and greenhouse setting.

You will perform routine laboratory techniques including plant-microbe bioassays and extracting DNA for sequencing.

The ’s mission is to provide the global research community with access to the most advanced integrative genome science capabilities in support of the DOEs research mission to solve the world’s evolving energy and environmental challenges.

The JGI supports projects in genome sequencing, synthesis, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and natural products in plants, fungi, algae, and microorganisms.

This position has an anticipated start date of September 1, 2024.

What You Will Do :

• Culture bacteria using aseptic techniques.
• Prepare media and pour plates.
• Maintain plants in greenhouse or growth chambers.
• Assist with DNA extraction, PCR, and other basic molecular biology techniques.
• Assist with preparing samples for metabolomic analysis.
• Assist with plant-microbe experiments using developing protocols.
• Perform routine laboratory techniques including the collection and processing of data.
• Keep a detailed laboratory notebook and upload data in relevant databases.
• Participate in research group meetings.
• Support maintenance of laboratory working environment, including maintaining consumable supplies, chemical inventories, antibiotic stocks, and maintaining reusable glassware supplies.

What is Required :

• Experience with laboratory techniques including making media and culturing bacteria.
• Knowledge of molecular biology techniques including PCR and DNA extraction.
• Good oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize and maintain a detailed laboratory notebook and upload data in relevant databases.
• Ability to follow written laboratory protocols.

Desired Qualifications :

• A Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent knowledge / training) in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Experience with standard bioinformatics tools and databases.
• Effective interpersonal skills including the ability to work autonomously and as part of a diverse interdisciplinary collaborative team.

Notes :

• For first consideration, please apply with a resume by August 5, 2024.
• This is a full time, non-exempt (hourly paid) from overtime, 1 year, Term (benefits eligible) appointment with the possibility of renewal up to a maximum of 5 years total or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• This position is expected to pay $21.79 - $26.75 per hour which fits within the full salary range of $21.79 - $31.69 per hour for job code 588.

1. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, plus also aligned with the internal peer group.

This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position.

Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• This position will be performed onsite at the West Berkeley Biocenter (Potter St.) Bldg. 977, located at 717 Potter Street Berkeley, CA 94710.
• This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
• This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
30+ days ago