Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)

Rutgers University; Piscataway Township (NJ); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Rutgers University in Piscataway, NJ, is seeking a seasonal Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab) to assist with RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas research, cloning, and basic microbiology workflows. The position is fully on-site, with a 40-hour work week and hourly pay between $20 and $25.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in biology or related field, plus hands-on experience with RNA biology protocols and standard lab equipment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with RNA biology protocols including RNA purification.
• Proficiency with centrifuges, pipettes, electrophoresis, PCR machines, and plate readers.

Responsibilities

• Assists with experiments investigating RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems.
• Performs molecular cloning and plasmid analysis.
• Conducts bacterial cell transformations and growth experiments.
• Prepares RNA samples for RNA sequencing and downstream analyses.
• Supports overall laboratory operations, including supply and equipment ordering.

Skills

RNA biology

Molecular biology

Microbiology

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or related field

Tools

Centrifuges

Pipettes

Electrophoresis

PCR machines

Plate readers

Job description

Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)

Recruitment/Posting Title Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)

Posting Number 26TM0303

Department Waksman Institute of Microbiol

Overview

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national research university and the State of New Jersey’s preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. As one of the largest employers in the State of New Jersey, Rutgers University is committed not only to the students and the State that we serve, but also to the faculty and staff who work on our campuses.
For two consecutive years, Rutgers is ranked on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Large Employers. Rutgers holds #64 of 500 employers and is the #1 New Jersey employer on the publication’s 2023 list. Rutgers’ commitment to its employees includes maintaining and fostering a safe, diverse, and respectful workplace environment, creating employment opportunities for our nation’s military veterans, and ensuring accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities.

Posting Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a seasonal Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab) for the Waksman Institute.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:

• Assists with experiments investigating RNA -targeting type VI CRISPR -Cas systems.
• Performs molecular cloning and plasmid analysis.
• Conducts bacterial cell transformations and growth experiments.
• Prepares RNA samples for RNA sequencing and downstream analyses.
• Supports overall laboratory operations, including supply and equipment ordering.

FLSA Nonexempt

Salary Details $20 - $25 per hour

Offer Information The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status Full Time

Working Hours 40 hours per week

Work Arrangement This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Payroll Designation PeopleSoft

Terms of Appointment Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or a related scientific/technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Hands-on experience with microbiological, molecular biology, and RNA biology protocols, including RNA purification and analysis.
• Proficiency in using centrifuges, pipettes, electrophoresis and electroporation equipment, PCR machines, and plate readers.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least one year of research experience.
• Experience in lab maintenance.

Posting Open Date 07/20/2026

Posting Close Date 11/05/2026

Special Instructions to Applicants

Regional Campus Rutgers University - New Brunswick

City Piscataway

State NJ

Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or a related scientific/technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• List of Professional References (contact Info)

Optional Documents

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