Lab Research Assistant , Plant & Microbial Biology

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The Department of Plant & Microbial Biology is committed to the University of Californias mission of dedicated research and to providing a superior education in plant biology, microbiology, and related life sciences.

We integrate fast-changing technology and developments into our research and develop collaborative partnerships with other scientists and research institutions at UC Berkeley and around the world.

In this position, the Laboratory Research Assistant supports the Seed Lab in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at UC Berkeley, which investigates the interactions between phages and Vibrio cholerae. The Laboratory Research Assistant carries out the isolation and sequencing of phages and V. cholerae, including screening samples by PCR and extracting DNA for next-generation sequencing. This position performs phenotypic assays to assess phage infectivity and utilizes molecular genetics to engineer phages and V.

cholerae mutants. Additionally, the Laboratory Research Assistant maintains lab organization, manages consumable and reagent inventories, handles ordering, and ensures accurate documentation of experimental results.

The First Review Date for this job is:
September 22, 2026. For full consideration, please apply on or before the first review date.

• Isolate and purify phages and Vibrio cholerae, Isolate genomic DNA from phages and Vibrio cholerae for whole genome sequencing
• Perform PCR to screen for phages and Vibrio cholerae
• Maintain a well-organized collection of phages and Vibrio cholerae from samples, including electronic records
• Perform phenotypic assays to evaluate phage infectivity and susceptibility of V. cholerae to phage infection
• Construct bacterial and phage mutants
• Maintenance of laboratory consumable and reagent inventories
• Ordering for the lab operations
• Participate in lab meetings to keep abreast of current research projects and support needs
• Present summary of findings verbally at lab meetings and in written format if findings are gauged to be appropriate for publication

• Research experience in microbiology or molecular biology and a strong understanding of the underlying scientific principles
• Ability to work both independently and as a team member
• Ability to maintain an organized record of experiments
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form

• Prior research experience in bacterial genetics
• Proficiency in data management

• Bachelors degree in the life sciences or related discipline (and/or…