Research Assistant

Job Title

Research Assistant

Agency

Texas A&M Agrilife Research

Department

Entomology

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

About Texas A&M AgriLife

Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:

• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
• Texas A&M AgriLife Research
• College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University
• Texas A&M Forest Service
• Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

As the nation’s largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.

Click here to learn more about how you can be a part of AgriLife and make a difference in the world!

Position Information

We are seeking a research assistant who performs skilled, administrative, and managerial support in research. Plans and directs certain phases in a research project.

Responsibilities:
- Perform rearing activities and/or genetic crosses with arthropods in a contained laboratory environment. Assist with the performance of genetic, proteomic, transcriptomic, imaging, biochemical and/or physiological experiments to elucidate factors critical for important insect traits (digestion, feeding, development, reproduction, DNA repair, etc..).

-Collection of data and keeping of detailed records of results, as well as utilizing computer programs and databases to conduct analyses.

-Preparation of media, insect diet, rearing containers, etc...

-Cleaning/washing of lab materials, insect cages or other materials as needed.

-Other duties as required.

Required Education and Experience:
-Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Entomology or closely related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
-Knowledge of laboratory maintenance and equipment.

-Knowledge of computers and computer software related to the position.

-Research experience/training in molecular biology techniques

-Preferred experience in insect physiology/biochemistry/genetics.

-Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Why Work at Texas A&M AgriLife?

When you choose to work for Texas A&M AgriLife, you become part of an organization that is an established leader in agriculture and life sciences with a wide range of capabilities to meet the needs of our statewide, national, and international constituents.

In addition, Texas A&M AgriLife offers a comprehensive benefit package including the following:

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums 
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays  
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas  
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

Please attach to your complete application:

-Resume/CV

-Cover Letter - please articulate how your past expertise is relevant to the goals of this position as wee as how this position fits into your overall career goals.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.