Molecular Plant Nematology Lab Student Assistant – Mitchum Lab

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is looking for a Molecular Plant Nematology Lab Assistant in Athens, Georgia. This position involves supporting research related to plant diseases, participating in lab experimentation, and assisting with daily lab maintenance tasks.

Ideal candidates are self-motivated, organized, and detail-oriented, with a strong interest in plant science. Prior lab experience is desirable but not mandatory. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Interest in molecular/cellular aspects of plant science, plant pathology, plant biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Self-motivated, organized, detail-oriented, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Participate in lab experimentation and data collection.
• Assist with sample collection, media preparation, and lab protocols.
• Help with lab maintenance, including cleaning and stocking supplies.
• Care for plants and pathogens in greenhouses and growth chambers.

Skills

Organization

Time management

Communication skills

Education

Interest in molecular/cellular aspects of plant science

Prior coursework in a laboratory setting

Job description

Position Summary

The Molecular Plant Nematology Lab Assistant position will support laboratory and greenhouse research related to plant diseases and the biology of their causal agents under the direction of a faculty member and/or lab manager/post‑docs/graduate students. Duties include participation in lab experimentation, collection and summary of data in support of molecular plant‑nematode interaction research activities; assisting with plant and/or pathogen care by watering plants in greenhouses and growth chambers, including short periods on a rotational basis during assigned weekends; assisting with sample collection, media preparation, and other lab protocols; and assisting with lab maintenance and chores, including dishwashing and autoclaving, stocking supplies, cleaning the lab, and disposing of biohazardous materials.

Responsibilities

• Participate in lab experimentation, collection and summary of data in support of molecular plant‑nematode interaction research activities (40%).
• Assist with sample collection, media preparation, and other lab protocols (20%).
• Assist with lab maintenance and chores, including dishwashing, autoclaving, stocking supplies, cleaning the lab, and disposing of biohazardous materials (30%).
• Assist with plant and/or pathogen care by watering plants in greenhouses and growth chambers, including short periods on a rotational basis during assigned weekends (10%).

Qualifications

• Interest in molecular/cellular aspects of plant science, plant pathology, plant biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Self‑motivated, organized, detail‑oriented, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.
• Manages time well and is reliable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Prior coursework and experience working in a laboratory setting is desirable but not required.

Physical Demands

Minimal lifting/bending in the normal operations of a typical office/lab environment.

Security & Trust

• Position of Trust: Yes.
• Access to or control of financial resources: No.
• Requires P‑Card: No.
• Driving requirement: No.
• Direct interaction or care of children under 18 or direct patient care: No.
• Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications): Yes.

Background Investigation

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation, including a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

Location

Athens Area