Job Title: Research Assistant

Job Description

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join our team and contribute to the development of innovative, sustainable biosolutions based on RNAi technology. The Research Assistant will work on molecular biology tasks and insect bioassays, supporting the advancement of RNAi-based biopesticides for agricultural pest control. This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic startup environment where you will gain exposure to various aspects of the research process.

Responsibilities

• Support a laboratory that manipulates bacterial strains by growing and analyzing bacterial cultures.
• Perform molecular biology tasks such as PCR, plasmid and genomic DNA extraction, RNA extraction, restriction digestion, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Design, conduct, and assess insect bioassays and whole plant assays in laboratory and greenhouse environments.
• Rear and maintain insect colonies to support R&D activities.
• Maintain plants for experimental purposes.
• Keep detailed and accurate records of experiments, data, and results.
• Communicate progress on assigned projects to the Laboratory Operations Director and Program Management Office.
• Manage resources required to complete assigned projects.
• Report results in research team meetings and assist in assembling reports for the broader organization and external partners.
• Conduct research in accordance with or exceeding all relevant Health, Safety, and Environmental guidelines.
• Provide detailed and accurate project time tracking as requested, usually twice a month.

Essential Skills

• Molecular biology techniques including PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, cloning, and sterile techniques.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extractions and PCR reactions.
• Ability to follow established protocols and assist in developing new protocols.
• Experience in a laboratory environment with safe work practices, including handling bacteria and hazardous chemicals.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $27.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in St. Louis,MO.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 21, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $25 - $27