Research Assistant

The Climate and Ecosystem Science Division, within the Molecular Ecology and Biogeochemistry Department at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant position. Under the direct guidance and supervision of the supervisor, you will perform routine laboratory techniques related to research projects focused on developing methods to enrich microbial communities capable of degrading recalcitrant carbon under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, using microwell plates, and column systems.

You will assist in experiments that explore the generation and utilization of the carbon, monitor growth and perform assays for specific metabolites and intermediates, Additionally, the candidate will use DNA based tools to identify communities and isolates.

What You Will Do:

• Perform routine laboratory techniques to grow diverse environmental microbes in relevant environmental media.

• Process microbial samples in the laboratory for analysis of DNA, metabolites.

• Assist with the development metabolic assays and related chemical stocks preparation.

• Monitor microbial growth and routine depletion of carbon and other metabolites.

• Share experimental results and data on shared systems directly with supervisor.

• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory notebook of all work performed.

• Maintain standards of cleanliness of the work area and a safe and productive work area for research.

What is Required:

• Rudimentary knowledge and skills in working with soil and sediment derived microbial strains.

• Rudimentary knowledge and skills in performing assays to characterize microbial phenotypes and metabolites.

• Rudimentary knowledge and skills in anaerobic and aerobic methods monitoring microbial growth and metabolisms.

• Ability to demonstrate persistent effort of work (e.g. determination).

• Ability to pay attention to detail.

• Ability to communicate effectively.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree preferred or equivalent experience.

• General knowledge and skills in enrichment of soil and sediment microbes.

• Working knowledge of Excel, and basic statistics.

For full consideration, please apply by October 15, 2025.

Notes:

• This is a part-time(30 hours per week), 1 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

• The full salary range of this position is between $22.40 to $32.58 per hour and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $25.00 to $26.00 per hour depending upon candidates' full skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.

• This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.