Plant Nematology Lab Assistant

Overview:
The Plant Nematology Lab Assistant will support laboratory and greenhouse research related to plant diseases and the biology of their causal agents under the direction of a faculty member and/or lab manager/post-docs/graduate students.
Responsibilities:

* Planting and processing of plants for screening for nematode resistance, including labeling tags, packaging and germination of seed, harvesting seed, filling pots with soil, soaking and processing roots for nematode analysis

* Assisting with plant and/or nematode care by watering of plants in greenhouses and growth chambers, including short periods on a rotational basis during assigned weekends

* Assisting with lab maintenance and chores, including washing and sterilizing pots, stocking supplies, cleaning the lab, disposing of plant material

* Assisting with prepping, steaming, and disposal of soil

Qualifications:

* Prior experience working with plants is desirable, but not required

* Interest in crop/plant science, plant pathology, plant biology, soil science, or a related field

* Self-motivated, organized, detail-oriented, enthusiastic and eager to learn

* Excellent verbal communication skills

* Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time and work under the warmer temperatures of a greenhouse setting while doing technical tasks

* Availability to work on weekends on a rotational basis to water and care for plants

* Ability to manage time well and be reliable

Benefits:

* Opportunity to work in a dynamic research environment

* Supportive team and faculty members

* Development of valuable laboratory and research skills

* Flexible scheduling with rotational weekend availability

* Competitive pay and benefits package