Phage & Bacteria Genomics Lab Assistant

University of California; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 763,000 - 779,000; Full time

Job summary

The Laboratory Research Assistant in the Plant & Microbial Biology Department at University of California, Berkeley, supports the Seed Lab studying phage-Vibrio cholerae interactions. You will isolate phages and V.

cholerae, perform PCR screening, extract DNA for whole-genome sequencing, and engineer phage and bacterial mutants. Responsibilities include maintaining organized inventories, documenting results, and presenting findings at lab meetings.

Qualifications

• Experience in microbiology or molecular biology fundamentals.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong record-keeping and data organization skills.
• Effective oral and written communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Isolate and purify phages and Vibrio cholerae; prepare genomic DNA for sequencing.
• Perform PCR to screen phages and V. cholerae samples.
• Maintain organized lab inventories and electronic records.
• Conduct phenotypic assays to assess phage infectivity.
• Construct bacterial and phage mutants; assist with sequencing and data analysis.
• Support ordering and supply management for lab operations.
• Present findings at lab meetings and contribute to publication-ready reports.

Skills

Microbiology knowledge

Molecular biology

Independent work

Effective communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in life sciences

Tools

PCR techniques

DNA extraction

Next-generation sequencing

Job description

The Laboratory Research Assistant in the Plant & Microbial Biology Department at University of California, Berkeley, supports the Seed Lab studying phage-Vibrio cholerae interactions. You will isolate phages and V.

cholerae, perform PCR screening, extract DNA for whole-genome sequencing, and engineer phage and bacterial mutants. Responsibilities include maintaining organized inventories, documenting results, and presenting findings at lab meetings.