Plant Molecular Biology Lab & Greenhouse Assistant

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University in University Park seeks a Laboratory Assistant to support plant biology research across greenhouse operations, propagation, tissue culture, and routine lab activities. The role involves collaboration with research staff to maintain plants and experiments and prepare essential materials.

The position requires hands-on work in both greenhouse and laboratory environments, performing repetitive tasks, following established protocols, and learning new techniques as needed.

Responsibilities

• Assist with greenhouse and growth-room operations, including watering, fertilization, plant maintenance, pest monitoring, and general plant care.
• Prepare and maintain greenhouse growing media, propagation materials, and planting supplies.
• Assist with large-scale plantings, transplanting, propagation, and harvesting of research plants.
• Prepare tissue culture media, including measuring reagents, preparing solutions, dispensing media, and assisting with sterilization and storage.
• Assist with plant tissue culture and propagation activities, including maintaining cultures and preparing materials for experiments.
• Support laboratory personnel with routine molecular biology and laboratory tasks, as appropriate and following established protocols.
• Assist with preparation of buffers, solutions, reagents, and other laboratory materials.
• Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked greenhouse and laboratory workspaces.
• Assist with sample collection, labeling, organization, and record keeping.
• Help maintain laboratory and greenhouse equipment, supplies, and inventories.
• Follow established laboratory, greenhouse, biosafety, and safety procedures.
• Assist research staff with ongoing experiments and other projects as needed.
• Perform other related duties in support of laboratory research and plant production activities.

Skills

Greenhouse operations

Tissue culture

Molecular biology basics

Laboratory safety

Tools

Sterilization techniques

Job description

Penn State University in University Park seeks a Laboratory Assistant to support plant biology research across greenhouse operations, propagation, tissue culture, and routine lab activities. The role involves collaboration with research staff to maintain plants and experiments and prepare essential materials.

The position requires hands-on work in both greenhouse and laboratory environments, performing repetitive tasks, following established protocols, and learning new techniques as needed.