Description:
We are seeking to expand our team located in St. Louis, Missouri by adding a Research Assistant position who will report to the Project Leads. The Research Assistant will help developing new, and more sustainable biosolutions based on the RNAi technology that are friendlier to the environment and safer to animal and human health. This Research Assistant will be involved in basic molecular biology works and insect bioassays. We are looking for an individual who has hands-on experience in general molecular biology techniques, and sterile techniques as it pertains to the culture and maintenance of bacterial cultures as well as good problem-solving skills, and a strong desire to learn new skills.
This role will support a lab that engineers bacterial strains. The job responsibilities include growing and analyzing bacterial cultures, and performing typical molecular biology tasks such as PCR, plasmid and genomic DNA extraction, RNA extraction, restriction digestion, agarose gel electrophoresis.
They will also support a team that set-up insect bioassays, which will involve direct handling of some arthropod pests of agriculture. About 50% of their time will be spent in molecular biology tasks, and 50% spent in entomology/setting up bioassays, but this may fluctuate day to day. The role will require a fair amount of flexibility and agility to plug in where needed in support of the ebb and flow of their work.
Skills:
Molecular biology, Pcr, dna extraction, RNA, entomology, Insect Bioassays
Additional Skills & Qualifications:
#1: Must possess at least 6 months of experience (open to a little less if it is very relevant) in an INDUSTRY setting- not academia unless we can make a super compelling argument as to why they are a standout- in molecular biology- specifically experience with DNA/RNA extractions and PCR; setting up PCR reactions, CLONING, RNA/DNA extractions
#2 Helpful if they have some prior exposure to fungus or fungi - NOT required
Bachelor's Degree required unless they have significant experience (more than 2 years) of the above
-Must have Basic sterile technique as well.
Other skills:
• Able to follow established protocols and assist in developing new protocols.
• Experienced in a laboratory environment with safe work practices, including handling of bacteria and hazardous chemicals.
• Able to lift and move items up to 30 pounds.
• Strong motivation for continuous learning.
• While most duties will be performed during regular business hours. Some work will require a flexible schedule to accommodate time-sensitive experiments which includes working during weekends.
• Proficiency in standard computer programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Experience Level:
Intermediate Level
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