Laboratory Assistant

Position Information

Ramadugu lab is focused on developing citrus Huanglongbing resistance through breeding. Under the direct supervision of the PI, the Laboratory Assistant I is expected to assist in projects related to citrus breeding, molecular analysis of hybrids, and metabolomics. The selected individual is expected to follow the University guidelines and take the required safety courses, including BSL3 training, and assist with pathogenicity experiments in the Biological Safety Level 3 facility on Marlborough Street.

• Care for grafted plants and maintain inventories for four greenhouses.
• Enter and update data for the Field Book app.
• Assist with preparing for genotyping experiments.
• Collect fruit from pollinated plants for metabolomic analysis, take photographs, juice, and label tubes.
• Process seeds obtained from pollinated fruits, perform sanitation procedures, and assist in planting seeds.
• Conduct DNA and RNA extractions and assist with qPCR assays.
• Collaborate with the team during field planting activities.
• Cooperate with the PI and other lab members, including student workers, to accomplish research tasks.

• Undergraduate degree in a scientific discipline.
• Minimum 2 years of laboratory experience.
• Ability to follow directions in sample collection, data entry, and inventory management.
• Knowledge of plant care in contained research facilities and APHIS‑certified greenhouses; experience with citrus grafting.
• Laboratory skills including DNA and RNA extractions, autoclave use, and managing environmental and safety issues.
• Ability to work cooperatively with team members and strong communication skills.

Full salary range: $21.01 – $24.32 per hour. Realized minimum pay: $25 per hour.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under state or federal law.

For information about our generous employee benefits package, visit:
Employee Benefits Overview.