Laboratory Assistant

Mindlance; Johnston (IA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in agriscience is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to join their Protein Analysis Immunochemistry Team. This role involves sample preparations, high throughput assays, data analysis, and equipment maintenance. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and experience in analytical chemistry along with strong problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of working experience or equivalent education.
• Experience with protein specific analysis preferred.
• Strong computer skills and analytical software proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Perform sample extraction and quantitation according to SOP.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate in software and automation advancements.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem identification

Process improvement

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in analytical chemistry, biochemistry or related field

Tools

Analytical software tools

Microsoft Office

Laboratory automation

Job description

*** Agriscience is looking for a responsible and highly motivated Laboratory Assistant to join the Protein Analysis Immunochemistry Team! Protein Analysis Immunochemistry (PAIC) in Protein and Analytical Core Technologies (PACT) is focused on utilizing varied antibody-based techniques for high throughput target protein detection and quantification in transgenic plants. This person will: perform sample extractions, total protein assay, prepare and analyze samples for high throughput immunochemistry assays, automated equipment operation and maintenance, lab reagent preparation and inventory; and complete high throughput sample and data analyses with a focus on providing cost effective, timely, quality results to our clients.

The duties and responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to the following:
• Perform sample extraction, total protein quantitation, and immunochemistry assays according to Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
• Ensure that all materials necessary for production are prepared properly, on time, and in a safe manner
• Record information in electronic notebook and proprietary and standard software applications such as Microsoft Office. Detailed documentation of lab process and lab outcomes.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment
• Continually look for process improvement opportunities and help the team to implement solutions
• Design, perform, and analyze assay maintenance experiments including performance optimization and reagent replacement
• Troubleshooting of processes as needed
• Solve minor problems associated with equipment operation and assay performance
• Make detailed observations, analyze data and interpret results
• Collaborate with colleagues in Farming Solutions & Digital (FS&D) to identify, test, and implement laboratory software and automation advancements
• Promotion of a safe working environment.
• Perform routine lab support tasks including the following:
• General lab maintenance
• Lab supply inventory
• Solution preparation
• Equipment and assay maintenance
• Robotic equipment use
• As needed, follow Good Laboratory Procedures (GLP) and prepare related support documentation.
Job Qualification
The following are required:
• Bachelor’s degree in analytical chemistry, biochemistry or related field with 1-3 years of working experience or equivalent amounts of relevant education and experience..
• Protein specific analysis experience is preferred.
• Experience with data analysis and analytical software tools is strongly desired.
• Strong computer skills
• Experience with problem identification, problem solving and process improvement
• Ability to work well with teams as well as independently
• Attention to detail and ability to stay focused while performing repetitive tasks
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and committed to personal/technical growth
• Must have excellent written, oral, and organizational skills
• Immunochemistry, high throughput analysis, computer programing, and experience with laboratory automation are preferred but not required.
• Working experience with GLP protein analysis/quantitation