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 Position Overview: The Motta lab at Texas A&M University, College Station, is seeking a motivated Laboratory Research Technician to join the research team. This position requires a graduate certificate (post-baccalaureate level) and experience in either microbiology or molecular biology laboratory chores and/or beekeeping. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining hives in a small apiary, assisting lab members with basic chores, handling purchasing tasks, maintaining detailed records of hives, experiments, and purchases, and contributing to experiments and learning new techniques when time permits. Responsibilities: Experimental Support: -     Assist researchers in laboratory and field experiments. -     Follow experimental protocols and document procedures accurately. Apiary Maintenance: -     Help maintain and manage hives in a small apiary comprising less than 10 hives designated for research purposes. -     Monitor hive health and conduct inspections as needed. Assistance with Lab Chores: -     Support lab members with routine laboratory tasks and procedures. -     Prepare materials for molecular biology and microbiology experiments, such as preparing buffers and autoclaving glass- and plasticwares. -     Clean and organize laboratory spaces with the help of lab members to maintain efficiency. Lab Organization and Purchasing: -     Manage inventory and perform necessary purchases for the lab. -     Maintain meticulous records of purchases and expenditures. -     Assist in the laboratory training of new members. Required Education Bachelor's degree in relevant field. Preferred Education Graduate certificate (post-baccalaureate level) in a relevant field (e.g., biology, microbiology, molecular biology, environmental science). Required knowledge, skills and abilities: Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate records and manage multiple tasks. Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a research environment. Attention to detail and adherence to laboratory safety protocols. Willingness to learn and adapt to new techniques and methodologies as required by ongoing research projects. Ability to handle and lift boxes and equipment commonly used in labs and beekeeping. Ability to multi task and work cooperatively with others. Preferred knowledge, skills and abilities: Previous experience in research setting or academic laboratory. General molecular biology and bench laboratory experience. Proficiency in basic laboratory techniques and equipment operation. Familiarity with beekeeping practices and apiary management. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve minor technical issues independently. Work Environment: This position will be based in the Motta Lab at Texas A&M University, College Station, which focuses on studying the honeybee microbiota. The candidate will have the opportunity to work alongside a collaborative team of researchers and contribute to innovative projects in the field of microbiome and gain new skills in microbiology, molecular biology and beekeeping. Application Process: Please submit your C.V. and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position and contact information for two professional references to erick.motta@ag.tamu.edu 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/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.