Laboratory Assistant-- GOEDC5784305

Compunnel Inc.; Zionsville (IN); On-site; USD 27,552; Full time

Job summary

A research organization in Zionsville, Indiana, seeks a motivated individual for a lab position, focusing on media preparation and chemical handling. Responsibilities include preparing growth media, managing chemical safety, and assisting with plant material handling. Required qualifications include a background in Biology or Plant Pathology, with relevant experience preferred. The role emphasizes aseptic techniques and safety protocols to ensure a clean working environment.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of relevant experience can substitute for degree requirements.
• Proven ability to work effectively in both team settings and independently.
• Experience with fungal cultures and maintaining sterile conditions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare media and sterilize equipment for research.
• Handle plant materials and conduct routine lab tasks.
• Safely manage chemicals while following safety protocols.
• Ensure the proper disposal of hazardous materials.

Skills

Knowledge of plant science

Strong professional work ethic

Teamwork

Aseptic technique experience

Attention to detail

Education

Background in Biology or Plant Pathology

Job description

Shift: Monday – Friday; 40 hours a week + 2 hours on one Saturday/month; 7:00AM – 4:00PM

Pay Rate: $20/hr on W2 (all inclusive)

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong work ethic to join our collaborative team of four in a lab and greenhouse environment. This position requires the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with rotating responsibilities to ensure continued engagement. Aseptic technique experience is essential for this role. This is a one-year contract position with the potential for yearly extensions based on performance.

Key Responsibilities

Media Preparation

• Prepare media for research purposes
• Clean and rinse glassware and equipment.
• Sterilize equipment using an autoclave.
• Prepare tubes and bottles with specified solutions.
• Operate basic lab equipment.

Plant Material and Inoculum Handling

• Conduct routine laboratory tasks and prepare test setups, including placing plants into trays, tagging them, and assisting with applications.
• Mark plants for mobility tests and breakdowns and move them onto carts for further handling.
• Assist with inoculating and harvesting stock.

Chemical Handling and Safety

• Safely handle and apply chemicals including fungicides, and other research-related substances, following all safety protocols.
• Demonstrate the ability to properly wear and use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a PAPRs (Powered Air-Purifying Respirators), to ensure safety during chemical handling and other hazardous tasks.
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and disposal of chemicals in accordance with safety guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Wash and move carts, cut flats into single pots.
• Bag and weigh plant material for disposal.
• Clean lab and greenhouse benches and floors.
• Empty and replace hazardous and non-hazardous waste containers.
• Scrub Growth and Dew Rooms.
• Stock labs and greenhouses with necessary supplies.

Educational Background

• A background in Biology or Plant Pathology is preferred.
• 1-2 years of relevant experience can substitute for degree requirements.

Essential Skills and Traits

• Knowledge of plant science is essential.
• Strong professional work ethic and highly motivated mindset.
• Proven ability to work effectively in both team settings and independently in a professional environment.
• Experience with the preparation, maintenance, and inoculation of fungal cultures in sterile conditions.
• Knowledge of safety protocols for handling fungal cultures to prevent contamination or exposure.
• Experience in preparing inoculum for plant material studies and other related tasks.
• Familiarity with harvesting and storing fungal cultures for experimental purposes.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work carefully in a lab environment.