CPDD Laboratory Assistant

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong work ethic to join our collaborative team of four in a lab and greenhouse environment. This position requires the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with rotating responsibilities to ensure continued engagement. Aseptic technique experience is essential for this role. This is a one-year contract position with the potential for yearly extensions based on performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Media Preparation:
• Prepare media for research purposes
• Clean and rinse glassware and equipment.
• Sterilize equipment using an autoclave.
• Prepare tubes and bottles with specified solutions.
• Operate basic lab equipment.
• Plant Material and Inoculum Handling:
• Conduct routine laboratory tasks and prepare test setups, including placing plants into trays, tagging them, and assisting with applications.
• Mark plants for mobility tests and breakdowns and move them onto carts for further handling.
• Assist with inoculating and harvesting stock.
• Chemical Handling and Safety:
• Safely handle and apply chemicals including fungicides, and other research-related substances, following all safety protocols.
• Demonstrate the ability to properly wear and use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a PAPRs (Powered Air-Purifying Respirators), to ensure safety during chemical handling and other hazardous tasks.
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and disposal of chemicals in accordance with safety guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Housekeeping:
• Wash and move carts, cut flats into single pots.
• Bag and weigh plant material for disposal.
• Clean lab and greenhouse benches and floors.
• Empty and replace hazardous and non-hazardous waste containers.
• Scrub Growth and Dew Rooms.
• Stock labs and greenhouses with necessary supplies.
• Educational Background:
• A background in Biology or Plant Pathology is preferred.
• 1-2 years of relevant experience can substitute for degree requirements.
• Essential Skills and Traits:
• Knowledge of plant science is essential.
• Strong professional work ethic and highly motivated mindset.
• Proven ability to work effectively in both team settings and independently in a professional environment.
• Experience with the preparation, maintenance, and inoculation of fungal cultures in sterile conditions.
• Knowledge of safety protocols for handling fungal cultures to prevent contamination or exposure.
• Experience in preparing inoculum for plant material studies and other related tasks.
• Familiarity with harvesting and storing fungal cultures for experimental purposes.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work carefully in a lab environment.

Additional Information:

• This is not a temp-to-hire position; however, successful contractors may receive annual extensions.
• Weekly Schedule: 40 hours a week 2 hours on one Saturday/month