Laboratory Technician

Job Title:

Laboratory Technician

Job Description

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…