Laboratory Assistant

Adecco Healthcare & Life Sciences is hiring for a notable global agricultural biotechnology organization known for advancing crop science innovation and sustainable research practices.

Position Title: Research Associate – Insect Rearing & Molecular Lab Support

Assignment Type: Contract

Work Environment: Laboratory & Greenhouse (warm, humid conditions)

Pay : up to 26.3/hr depending on education and experience

Position Overview

This role supports research operations through hands‑on insect colony maintenance, greenhouse trial activities, and molecular biology laboratory support under the guidance of a lead scientist. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, comfortable working in controlled environmental conditions, and capable of executing written protocols with precision in both greenhouse and laboratory settings.

This is a highly operational, hands‑on role requiring consistency, manual dexterity, and strong documentation practices within a structured research environment.

Key Responsibilities

Insect Rearing & Greenhouse Support

• Maintain and rear fall armyworm colonies in controlled environmental chambers (warm, humid conditions)

• Collect and handle insects across multiple life stages

• Prepare and administer specialized insect diets following established protocols

• Monitor colony health and development on a daily basis

• Support greenhouse-based root harvest operations

• Wash, prepare, and organize root samples for downstream evaluation

• Clean and sanitize equipment and work spaces post‑harvest

• Accurately document rearing and research activities within Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Molecular & Wet Lab Support

• Execute routine wet lab protocols related to plant physiology, microbiology, and molecular biology

• Prepare buffers and reagents

• Support microbial culturing and aseptic techniques

• Assist with nucleic acid extraction and PCR setup

• Handle plant tissue samples with precision

• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results in electronic lab notebooks (e.g., Benchling)

• Operate effectively within a high‑throughput research environment

General Laboratory Responsibilities

• Follow all laboratory safety procedures, SOPs, and quality standards

• Maintain clean, organized laboratory and greenhouse work spaces

• Assist with equipment upkeep and inventory management

• Communicate observations, irregularities, or issues to supervising scientists

• Collaborate with team members across research functions

• Participate in team meetings and ongoing training sessions

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree or coursework in Biology, Entomology, Agriculture, or a related field

• Ability to follow detailed written protocols accurately

• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills

• Comfortable handling small insects and delicate plant materials

• Proficiency with basic computer systems and data entry platforms

• Ability to work in warm, humid greenhouse environments

• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25–30 pounds

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Entomology, Agriculture, or related discipline

• Foundational understanding of insect life cycles

• Knowledge of plant growth and greenhouse maintenance

• Experience with microbiology techniques (aseptic technique, culturing)

• Experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA handling, PCR)

• Prior laboratory, agricultural, or greenhouse experience

Pay Details: $24.00 to $26.30 per hour

Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Military connected talent encouraged to apply

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• The California Fair Chance Act

• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance

• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

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