Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)

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

Job summary

Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a seasonal Laboratory/Technical Assistant for the Semenova Lab at the Waksman Institute. The role involves assisting with CRISPR RNA-targeting experiments, performing molecular cloning and plasmid analysis, and handling bacterial transformations and growth, while supporting routine lab operations.

The position is on-site in New Brunswick/Piscataway, with a 40-hour work week and a pay rate of $20–$25 per hour.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or related field.
• Equivalent combination of education and lab experience may substitute.
• Experience carrying out research protocols preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with experiments investigating RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems.
• Perform molecular cloning and plasmid analysis.
• Conduct bacterial cell transformations and growth experiments.
• Prepare RNA samples for sequencing and downstream analyses.
• Support laboratory operations, including supply and equipment ordering.

Skills

RNA biology

Molecular biology

Microbiology protocols

Lab techniques

Education

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

Tools

Centrifuges

Pipettes

Electrophoresis

Electroporation

PCR machines

Plate readers

Job description

Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening.

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

Posting Number

Posting Number 26TM0303

Department

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.
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

Daily Work Shift

Work Arrangement

This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Payroll Designation PeopleSoft

Terms of Appointment Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly

Qualifications

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.

Certifications/Licenses

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.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Posting Open Date 07/20/2026

Posting Close Date 09/20/2026

Special Instructions to Applicants

Home Location Campus Rutgers University - New Brunswick

City Piscataway

State NJ

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

Required Documents

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

Optional Documents

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: Non-Discrimination-Statement .
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation with regard to your access to and/or your participation in the application and selection processes (for example, the online application process or interviews), please call 848-932-3973 or e-mail us .

Rutgers University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. If you have trouble accessing this page because of a disability, please contact us at 732.745.7378 or via email at [e-mail] .

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To learn more about Rutgers University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion on its campuses, click here .