Research Assistant (part-time) - Umen Lab
DONALD DANFORTH PLANT SCIENCE CENTER
Summary
The Umen Laboratory at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center investigates the genetics and cell biology of green algae. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to fill a part-time (15-20 hours per week) Research Assistant position.
Job description
Responsibilities
- Sterile media preparation
- Glassware cleaning
- Stock solution preparation
- General laboratory support
- Other duties as assigned
Required knowledge, skills, and abilities
- Basic understanding of sterile technique and ability to maintain a clean, organized work environment
- Able to organize, multitask and use time efficiently
- Able to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary and interactive research environment
- Effective writing and communication skills
- Meticulous record keeping
- Familiarity with the Microsoft Suite of products, specifically Excel, Word, PowerPoint and OneNote
- Align with Danforth Center values: Collaboration, Diversity & Inclusion, Innovation, Integrity & Respect, Environmental Sustainability, and Stewardship
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Prior laboratory experience or relevant biology and chemistry coursework preferred
- Students currently enrolled in an Associate or Bachelors Degree program in a science related field encouraged to apply
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Basic understanding of sterile technique
- Ability to maintain a clean, organized work environment
- Able to organize, multitask and use time efficiently
- Able to work independently and collaboratively
- Effective writing and communication skills
- Meticulous record keeping
- Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint and OneNote
- Prior laboratory experience preferred
- Relevant biology and chemistry coursework preferred
Company overview
The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is the world's largest independent nonprofit research institute dedicated exclusively to plant science. Founded in 1998 in St. Louis, Missouri, the center operates with a mission to improve the human condition through plant science by addressing critical global challenges at the nexus of food security and environmental sustainability. With a $30 million annual operating budget and a $300 million endowment, the center employs 242 staff including 30 principal investigators who conduct cutting-edge research in areas such as crop improvement, renewable fuels, and sustainable agriculture. The organization focuses on increasing agricultural productivity to sustainably feed the growing global population while reducing environmental impact through innovative plant science solutions. Its research spans fundamental plant biology, bioenergy development, and international crop improvement programs targeting staple crops in developing regions.