Tissue Culture Lab Technician

Job title:

Lab Technician

Report to Lab Manager

Salary: $26-$28 hour

• Aseptic Propagation:
  Using flow hoods and specialized tools to cut and transfer plant materials into new, sterile media containers.
• Media Preparation:
  Preparing nutrient-rich growth media, including weighing chemicals, adjusting pH levels, and sterilizing them in an autoclave.
• Contamination Monitoring:
  Inspecting cultures frequently for infections (fungal or bacterial) and removing contaminated samples immediately.
• Maintenance:
  Cleaning, autoclaving tools, and maintaining a strict, cleanroom environment.
• Documentation:
  Recording data on plant growth, contamination rates, and inventory in databases.

• Technique:
  Strong proficiency in aseptic/sterile techniques is paramount.
• Attention to Detail:
  Ability to spot tiny contaminants or irregularities in plant tissues.
• Physical Stamina:
  Capacity for repetitive motion and sitting for extended periods.
• Education:
  
  A degree in horticulture, biology, or botany is often preferred, no experience required, 1-2 years’ experience with plant tissue culture, is preferred.

• Setting:
  Controlled laboratory environments or clean rooms.
• Tools:
  Laminar flow hoods, microscopes, autoclaves, and autoclaved hand tools (forceps, scissors).
• Physical Requirements:
  
  Long periods of sitting, fine manipulation of small tissues, and occasional lifting up to 30 pounds.