Research Assistant

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Climate & Ecosystem Division is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our team. In this role, you will contribute to a project investigating Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) as direct and indirect contributors to soil C stabilization within the rhizosphere and beyond through teleconnections. You will also explore the underlying ecological and metabolic mechanisms associated with VOCs. This is an exciting opportunity to advance our understanding of the role of VOCs in soil processes and contribute to the field of biogeochemistry.

What You Will Do:

• Assist with sampling from greenhouse-grown plants, including soil, microbes, and roots.

• Process samples in the laboratory for analysis, ensuring accuracy and adherence to protocols.

• Perform metabolic assays and prepare related chemical stocks.

• Prepare growth media for bacteria and fungi, and cultivate microbial cultures.

• Communicate and share research results and data through shared systems.

• Maintain a meticulous and comprehensive laboratory notebook to document all work performed.

• Uphold cleanliness standards in the work area to ensure a safe and productive research environment.

What is Required:

• Bachelor of Science degree in related field or equivalent exerpeice with a solid foundation in general microbiology, soil microbiology, and biogeochemistry.

• Previous experience working with soil, plants, roots, and microbes.

• Proficiency in performing assays to characterize microbial properties.

• Working knowledge of Excel and basic statistics for data analysis.

• Strong attention to detail to ensure precise and accurate experimental procedures and data recording.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Join our team at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s Climate & Ecosystems Division as a Biogeochemistry Scientific Engineering Associate and work with the Belowground Biogeochemistry Scientific Focus Area to conduct research and provide support for planning, coordinating and executing fieldwork. You will have the opportunity to work with a team of scientists, postdoctoral researchers, students, and other scientific engineering and research associates.

Apply now to be part of our team and make a difference in the world!

The position will remain open until filled. However, for full consideration, please apply by August 4th, 2023 with a CV.

Want to learn more about Berkeley Lab's Culture, Benefits and answers to FAQs? Please visit: https://recruiting.lbl.gov/

Notes:

• This is a full-time, career appointment, non-exempt (hourly paid) from overtime pay.

• This position is expected to pay $21.20 - $26.02/hour, which fits within the full salary range of $21.20 - $30.83/hour. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, plus also aligned with the internal peer group.

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

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Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

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