Laboratory Assistant - Kopania (OPS)

Florida State University; Tallahassee (FL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL, invites applications for a Laboratory Assistant (OPS) in Dr. Kopania's biology lab. The role is temporary and in-person, supporting genomic research and fish husbandry.

The successful candidate will set up the molecular genomics lab, perform DNA/RNA extraction, library prep, and histology tasks, while maintaining supplies and team coordination. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences or related field (or nearing completion).
• At least one year of biology laboratory experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Docs.
• Interest in evolutionary biology and genomics.
• Strong time management and communication skills.
• Ability to work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Set up a molecular genomics laboratory and fish husbandry facility.
• Perform molecular lab tasks: DNA/RNA extraction, library prep, immunohistochemistry, microscopy.
• Maintain lab organization, order supplies, schedule equipment and supplies.
• Manage a fish (trout) facility: feedings, health checks, water quality monitoring.
• Mentor and train others in lab techniques.

Skills

Biology laboratory experience

Teamwork

Time management

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in life sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Google Docs

Job description

Job Title: Laboratory Assistant - Kopania (OPS)

Location: Tallahassee, FL

Regular/Temporary: Temporary

Full/Part Time:

Job ID: 63644

Department

Dr. Emily Kopania's laboratory in the Department of Biological Scienc e at Florida State University (https://ekopania.github.io/ and https://www.bio.fsu.edu/).

Our lab seeks to understand how selective pressures interact with developmental and functional constraints. We primarily do this by studying two different biological systems: (1) The evolution of vision in fish and (2) The evolution of reproduction in rodents. Our work integrates cutting-edge genomics and transcriptomics techniques with phylogenetic comparative approaches to understand molecular and trait evolution.

Responsibilities

The primary duties of this role include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Helping to set up a molecular genomics laboratory and fish husbandry facility.
• Performing molecular laboratory experiments. Examples include DNA and RNA extraction and library preparation, immunohistochemistry, and microscopy.
• General lab upkeep and organization, such as ordering supplies, scheduling, and maintaining supplies and equipment.
• Managing a fish (trout) facility through tasks such as regular feedings, health checks, and water quality monitoring.
• Mentoring and training others in laboratory techniques.

Qualifications

B.S. or B.A. degree (or higher) in the life sciences or related field. Exceptions may be made for students with laboratory research experience who are finishing their degrees this year.

• At least one year of experience in a biology laboratory.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Excel, Word, Teams) and Google Docs.
• A strong interest in evolutionary biology and genomics.
• Excellent time management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong ability to work with a team of students and researchers

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with molecular biology laboratory techniques.
• Previous experience working with animals in research settings, especially fish.

Anticipated Salary Range

Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Fringe benefits included. Ideal start date would be in October 2026 but is flexible based on candidate availability.

Considerations

This is an OPS/temporary job.

Based on the duties, this position may require completion of a criminal history background check.

A full-time (40 hours/week), in-person research assistant position.

Equal Employment Opportunity

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.