Job Title: Research Assistant

Job Description

We are seeking a Research Assistant to help develop new, sustainable biosolutions based on RNAi technology that are environmentally friendly and safer for animal and human health. The role involves basic molecular biology work and insect bioassays, supporting a lab that engineers bacterial strains and a team setting up insect bioassays.

ResponsibilitiesSupport a laboratory that manipulates bacterial strains, including growing and analyzing bacterial cultures.Perform 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 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 for 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 sterile techniques related to bacterial culture maintenance.Proficiency in DNA/RNA extractions and PCR.Experience with setting up insect bioassays.Basic sterile technique.Bachelor's Degree required unless possessing significant experience (more than 2 years) in the relevant field.At least 6 months of experience in an industry setting with molecular biology tasks.Strong problem-solving skills and a desire to learn new skills.Additional Skills & QualificationsExposure to fungus or fungi is helpful but not required.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.Strong motivation for continuous learning.Flexibility to accommodate time-sensitive experiments, including working during weekends.Proficiency in standard computer programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Work Environment

The Research Assistant will work in a standard lab setting. The role requires flexibility to adapt to the ebb and flow of lab work, including some weekend hours to accommodate time-sensitive experiments. This position offers the opportunity to gain exposure to all aspects of the role, providing a broad learning experience.

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 63141.

Application Deadline

This position will be accepting applications until Dec 17, 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 & Inclusion

At 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 people

The 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.