Research Assistant

We are seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join our team in developing new, sustainable biosolutions. This position involves both molecular biology work and insect bioassays, contributing to the creation of safer and more environmentally friendly biopesticides. The role requires hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques and sterile techniques for bacterial culture maintenance, along with a strong desire to learn and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Support a laboratory that manipulates bacterial strains, including growing and analyzing bacterial cultures.

• Perform 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 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 Skills

• At least 6 months of experience in an industry setting with DNA/RNA extractions and PCR.

• Experience setting up PCR reactions, cloning, and performing RNA/DNA extractions.

• Basic sterile technique.

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field unless possessing significant experience (more than 2 years) in the mentioned techniques.

• Strong motivation for continuous learning.

• Proficiency in standard computer programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in entomology and molecular biology.

• Experience maintaining insect colonies and setting up insect bioassays.

• Prior exposure to fungus or fungi is helpful but not required.

• Ability to follow established protocols and assist in developing new protocols.

• Experience in safe laboratory practices, including handling bacteria and hazardous chemicals.

• Ability to lift and move items up to 30 pounds.

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, to accommodate time-sensitive experiments.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a startup mentality with a willingness to learn and contribute ideas.

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.

Application Deadline

This position will be accepting applications until Dec 2, 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 (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.