Laboratory Assistant 2

Job Title: Laboratory Assistant 2

Location: Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

Contract Duration: 6 Months

Duties:

Support entomology research operations with a primary focus on setting up and executing insect bioassays across multiple target species (Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Hemiptera). This role also involves supporting insect rearing activities, colony maintenance, and collaborating within the broader entomology team to deliver high-quality scientific data.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Insect Bioassay Execution

Set up, execute, and monitor insect bioassays for multiple insect species.

Prepare assay materials, including treating plant tissues, preparing diet-incorporation assays, and handling test substances.

Perform accurate and precise pipetting of solutions for bioassay preparation and chemical/biological dilutions.

Collect, record, and evaluate bioassay data, including insect mortality, developmental delay, and plant damage scores.

Conduct leaf and plant tissue sampling according to established protocols, ensuring proper collection, labeling, and storage.

Insect Rearing and Colony Support

Support the rearing and maintenance of various insect colonies under controlled environmental conditions (warm, humid environments).

Collect and handle insects at specific life stages (eggs, larvae, nymphs, adults) required for bioassays.

Prepare specialized insect diets following established protocols.

Monitor colony health, development, and quality control metrics daily.

Clean and sanitize rearing containers, work areas, and equipment.

Entomology Team Support

Assist with greenhouse trial setups, plant maintenance, and sample evaluations (including root and leaf harvests).

Maintain accurate, real-time records of bioassays and rearing activities in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

Collaborate with the broader entomology team on high-throughput screening workflows and specialized research projects.

General Responsibilities

Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.

Maintain organized, clean, and sterile laboratory and rearing environments.

Communicate experimental observations, technical issues, and colony status to supervising scientists.

Skills:

Attention to Detail: Ability to follow precise bioassay protocols and maintain accurate experimental records.

Manual Dexterity: Comfortable handling small, delicate insects at various life stages and working with small laboratory tools.

Precision Pipetting: Demonstrated ability to accurately measure and dispense small volumes of liquids.

Data Entry: Proficiency with computer systems, spreadsheets, and LIMS databases.

Communication: Clear verbal and written communication with team members.

Physical Stamina: Ability to work in warm, humid conditions and perform repetitive tasks (e.g., assay setup, pipetting).

Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks, coordinate with colony schedules, and meet bioassay deadlines.

Education:

Required: Associate degree or coursework in Entomology, Biology, Agriculture, or a related scientific field.

Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in Entomology, Biology, Agriculture, or a related field with practical laboratory experience in insect handling or bioassays.