Job Description
We are seeking a Research Assistant to join our innovative team in developing new, sustainable biosolutions based on RNAi technology. This role involves basic molecular biology tasks and insect bioassays, contributing to the creation of environmentally friendly and safer solutions for agricultural pests. You will support a lab that engineers bacterial strains and set up insect bioassays, requiring flexibility and a strong desire to learn new skills.
ResponsibilitiesSupport a laboratory that manipulates bacterial strains, including growing and analyzing bacterial cultures and performing typical molecular biology tasks such as PCR, plasmid and genomic DNA extraction, RNA extraction, restriction digestion, and agarose gel electrophoresis.Design, conduct, and assess insect bioassays and whole plant assays in laboratory and greenhouse environments.Rear and maintain insects to support R&D activities.Maintain plants.Maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments, data, and results.Manage and regularly communicate progress on assigned projects to the Laboratory Operations Director and Program Management Office.Manage resources required to complete assigned projects.Report results in research team meetings and assist in assembling reports to be communicated to the broader organization and external partners.Conduct research in accordance with or exceeding all relevant Health, Safety, and Environmental guidelines.Provide detailed and accurate project time tracking to management as requested, usually twice a month.Essential SkillsHands-on experience in general molecular biology techniques.Experience with DNA/RNA extractions and PCR, setting up PCR reactions, cloning, and RNA/DNA extractions.Basic sterile technique.Bachelor's degree in a relevant field unless possessing significant experience (more than 2 years) in the above tasks.Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in entomology, including maintaining insect colonies and setting up insect bioassays.Experience in biomanufacturing and molecular biology, with at least six months of experience as a research/technical assistant in an industry or academic lab.Exposure to fungus or fungi (helpful but not required).Strong problem-solving skills and motivation for continuous learning.Ability to follow established protocols and assist in developing new protocols.Experience in a laboratory environment with safe work practices, including handling bacteria and hazardous chemicals.Ability to lift and move items up to 30 pounds.Flexible schedule to accommodate time-sensitive experiments, including some weekend work.Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $27.00
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in St. Louis,MO 63132.
Application Deadline
This position will be accepting applications until Dec 20, 2024.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
Diversity, Equity & InclusionAt Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our peopleThe company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.