Lab Specialist - Department of Physics and Astronomy

Lab Specialist I - Department of Physics and Astronomy

Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Job Summary

The technician will be responsible for creating non-pathogenic DNA constructs to be used in single molecule biophysics experiments and other duties as assigned. Assembly of DNA fragments into plasmids using traditional restriction digest cloning, site‑directed mutagenesis, Gibson assembly, or ligation‑independent cloning. Non-pathogenic Escherichia coli bacteria will be transformed with the assembled plasmids to produce useful amounts to be used as PCR templates or for digestion and purification for single molecule experiments.

Job Duties

• 60% – Essential:
  Use a variety of molecular cloning techniques to assemble DNA fragments into plasmids; verify assembly by gel electrophoresis and PCR.
• 30% – Essential:
  Generate purified plasmid fragments by restriction digests or PCR, followed by purification and optionally ligation; produce larger quantities of DNA as needed.
• 10% – Essential:
  Organise storage of DNA and protein aliquots in –20 °C and –80 °C freezers and maintain an updated database with location information.

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma and work experience in a clinical, research laboratory, health‑care setting, or general maintenance/machine shop; a bachelor’s degree in a related scientific discipline may substitute for work experience.
• 0+ years of work experience.

Preferred Requirements

• Associate or bachelor’s degree with quantitative science coursework.
• 1+ years’ experience with molecular biology techniques—restriction digest, ligation, PCR—and microbiological techniques pertinent to cloning.

Responsibilities

Fundamental job knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures and ability to apply them in varied situations. No supervisory or budgetary duties.

Physical Requirements

• Walk or move about.
• Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc.
• Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself.
• Recognize or inspect visually.
• Extend hands or arms in any direction.
• Perceive, observe, clarity of vision.

Working Conditions

Chemical hazards.

Work Schedule

Standard hours: 37.5.

Compensation Information

Salary range: $31,800 – $36,000. Salary is dependent on experience, knowledge, skills, and performance.

Job Location

Clemson, SC.

Final date to receive applications

May 21, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST.

Military and Veteran:
Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and training directly related to the job duties. Veteran preference policies apply.

Closing Statement

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.

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