Part-Time Student Lab Assistant – Biological Sciences

Location: Ames, IA
Job ID: 37710044
Company: Sigma Inc.
Duration: 12 Months
Job Type: Part-Time, Contract
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Schedule: Monday–Friday, between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM
Hours: 10–15 hours per week during the academic semester; up to 40 hours per week during the summer

Job Overview

Sigma Inc. is seeking a motivated Part-Time Student Lab Assistant to join a research laboratory team at the Iowa State University Research Park in Ames, IA. This is an excellent opportunity for a sophomore or junior studying biological sciences at Iowa State University to gain hands-on laboratory experience while supporting important biological research.

The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and comfortable working independently after an initial training period. Students with previous laboratory experience are encouraged to apply, but candidates with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn will also be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Clean, wash, and sterilize laboratory glassware and equipment.

• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary laboratory spaces.

• Handle and properly decontaminate biohazardous waste in accordance with laboratory safety procedures.

• Prepare reagents and solutions for laboratory use.

• Restock laboratory supplies and maintain inventory of essential materials.

• Clean, maintain, and organize laboratory equipment and work areas.

• Support daily laboratory operations and assist research staff with routine tasks.

• Potentially participate in project-related work involving early-stage animal vaccine research for viral and bacterial pathogens.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled as a sophomore or junior at Iowa State University, pursuing a degree in biological sciences or a related field.

• Ability to work 10–15 hours per week during the academic semester, with shifts of at least 2 hours (longer shifts preferred).

• Availability to work up to 40 hours per week during the summer is a plus.

• Previous laboratory experience or familiarity with basic laboratory techniques is preferred but not required.

• Strong work ethic, reliability, attention to detail, and willingness to learn.

• Ability to complete assigned tasks independently after approximately one month of training.

• Interest in laboratory research, biological sciences, microbiology, or vaccine research.

• Commitment to working throughout the 12-month assignment. This position is not intended for students seeking only a summer internship.

Work Schedule Requirements

• Working hours are Monday through Friday, between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

• Students are expected to work 15-20 hours per week during the academic semester.

• Shifts must be at least 2 hours long, with longer shifts preferred.

• Candidates must submit a proposed weekly work schedule at the top of their resume.

• Candidates should account for a 15–30-minute commute between campus and the Iowa State University Research Park, or additional travel time when using CyRide.

• Scheduling multiple shifts in a single day is discouraged.