Undergraduate Researcher – Bioinformatics & Microbiology

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 21,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky is seeking an Undergraduate Researcher in Bioinformatics & Microbiology to join the Horticulture lab. This part-time position focuses on datasets and microbiomes-related questions, with flexible hours between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday–Friday, totaling 6–10 hours per week.

No strong background in bioinformatics is required; reliability, eagerness to learn, and good communication are valued.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate student joining a bioinformatics-based research team.
• Interest in bioinformatics and microbiology is valued.

Responsibilities

• Assist with datasets for bioinformatics-based projects in microbiology.
• Collaborate with lab members and communicate findings as needed.

Skills

Computational skills

Organizational skills

Willingness to learn

Job description

Undergraduate Researcher – Bioinformatics & Microbiology

Job Title Undergraduate Researcher – Bioinformatics & Microbiology

Requisition Number

Requisition Number DU15047

Department Name

Department Name 81110:Horticulture

Work Location

Work Location Lexington, KY

Salary Range

Salary Range $15-$18/hour

Type of Position

Type of Position Student

Position Time Status

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education

N/A

Required Related Experience

N/A

Required License/Registration/Certification

Several online trainings developed by UK Environmental Health and Safety will need to be completed prior to starting work in the lab. The PI will work with the selected applicant to ensure their training plan is completed.

Physical Requirements

Repetitive tasks. Looking a computer screen for extended periods.

Shift

6-10 hours per week Monday–Friday, between 8 am – 5 pm

Job Summary

The Horticulture Department is seeking a motivated undergraduate student to join our research team on bioinformatics-based projects. The position focuses on datasets and scientific questions related to microbiology and microbiomes. A strong background in computer science or bioinformatics is not required—what matters most is a passion for learning, reliability, good communication skills, and self-motivation. This is a part-time position with flexible hours.
For more information about Horticulture: https://horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu/

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Basic computational and organizational skills; willingness to learn new software tools as needed.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Preferred Education/Experience

Previous experience working in a research lab is preferred but not essential.

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to Apply 09/09/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Please describe your experience in bioinformatics research.

  (Open Ended Question)

• * Describe your microbiology experience.

  (Open Ended Question)