Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

The Laboratory Technician supports scientific research by assisting technical personnel with general laboratory operations and routine laboratory and information-handling tasks in chemistry, biology, and microbiology. Working under the guidance of a supervisor, this role focuses on plant-related research and involves laboratory, greenhouse, and field activities, including sample collection, DNA extraction, high-throughput PCR, and sample inventory management. The position is fully site-based and requires strict adherence to established methods, standard operating procedures, and safety protocols.

Responsibilities:

• Assist technical personnel in general laboratory operations to support scientific research in chemistry, biology, and microbiology.
• Perform routine laboratory tasks according to accepted methods and training prescribed by the work instructions and supervisor.
• Work in laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings to support plant-related research activities.
• Conduct plant sampling and prepare biological samples for downstream analysis.
• Perform DNA extraction from plant and animal samples using established laboratory protocols.
• Run high-throughput PCR assays and ensure accurate processing and documentation of results.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including ordering, tracking, and organizing supplies and reagents.
• Maintain sample management systems, including labeling, cataloging, storing, and tracking biological samples.
• Use basic computer programs such as Microsoft Excel to record, organize, and analyze data and maintain accurate documentation.
• Follow standard operating procedures and laboratory guidelines to ensure consistency and reliability of experimental results.
• Adhere to Environmental Health and Safety standards and use appropriate personal protective equipment at all times.
• Comply with all safety procedures and report any safety concerns or incidents promptly.
• Document experimental methods, observations, and results clearly and accurately for research records.
• Communicate findings and updates effectively to supervisors and team members in both written and verbal formats.
• Collaborate with colleagues in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field to support shared research objectives.
• Drive occasionally as needed to support fieldwork or research-related activities, following applicable safety and compliance requirements.

Essential

Skills:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Agricultural Science, or a closely related field.
• At least 1 year of prior relevant experience working in a research laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience with PCR techniques, including high-throughput PCR.
• Practical experience with DNA extraction from plant or animal samples.
• Familiarity with core laboratory techniques used in biology and microbiology.
• Ability to follow accepted laboratory methods, standard operating procedures, and detailed work instructions.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs, particularly Microsoft Excel, for data entry, organization, and analysis.
• Understanding of Environmental Health and Safety standards and ability to follow all safety procedures.
• Consistent use of appropriate personal protective equipment in laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings.
• Strong written communication skills for clear documentation of methods, observations, and results.
• Strong verbal communication skills to effectively share information and updates with the research team.
• Good organizational skills to manage samples, inventory, and documentation accurately.
• Ability to work on-site full time and perform occasional driving as required for research activities.

Additional Skills &

Qualifications:

• Education in related scientific disciplines beyond Biology and Agricultural Science is beneficial.
• Experience working in greenhouse and field environments is an advantage.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Ability to follow complex standard operating procedures and maintain high attention to detail.
• Demonstrated capability to adhere strictly to safety protocols in laboratory and field settings.
• Effective documentation practices to ensure research records are complete, accurate, and well organized.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and prioritize tasks in a dynamic research environment.
• Comfort with handling multiple samples and maintaining organized sample management systems.

Work Environment:

This is a 100% site-based role that involves working across laboratory, greenhouse, and…