Work Study - Microbiology Student Leader

The Science Department is seeking a WORK STUDY ELIGIBLE student employee.Â

Microbiology Student Leaders are student employees who support research projects conducted by current microbiology students, with opportunities to assist Adrienne and Kim in teaching microbiology lab sessions and/or lectures. Student Leaders play a vital role in fostering a collaborative and engaging learning environment while also gaining hands-on experience in microbiology research. They are dedicated to helping their peers succeed, maintaining a safe and organized laboratory space, and promoting a passion for microbiology. As a Microbiology Student Leader, you will develop a plan to meet your career-specific goals in areas such as research project development, near-peer mentoring, or writing and editing content (e.g., ensuring lab manuals and pre-lab quizzes are clear for students). Your work plan may include a mix of the following: supporting microbiology lab activities, aiding students in understanding key concepts, and assisting faculty with laboratory preparation and lecture activities. This role provides a unique opportunity to develop leadership, communication, and technical skills in a laboratory setting. The position requires a commitment to academic excellence, attention to detail, and the ability to work kindly and respectfully with faculty, staff, and students.

Specific Percentages For Time Spent In Any Of The Following Areas Will Be Co-developed With Your Faculty Supervisor In Your Student Leader Work Plan

• Lab Support & Preparation: Assist with preparing microbiology lab experiments, including setting up materials, equipment, and reagents as needed.
• Research Assistance: Support microbiology research projects by testing new methods for conducting class experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining detailed laboratory notes.
• Student Support: Aid students during lab sessions by clarifying concepts, answering questions, and promoting safe lab practices.
• Classroom Support: Provide in-class support during microbiology lectures, including facilitating discussion groups, answering student questions, and assisting faculty as needed.
• Curriculum Support: Review educational materials to ensure they are clear and easy for students to understand.
• Safety & Cleanliness: Ensure all safety protocols are followed and maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked laboratory environment.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate with faculty, lab coordinators, and fellow student leaders to ensure the smooth operation of the microbiology lab and to support student learning.
• Passion for microbiology and an interest in supporting student learning and research.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to maintaining lab safety.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to explain complex scientific concepts to students in an accessible and supportive manner.
• Previous experience in a microbiology lab (academic or research) is preferred but not required.
• Work-study eligibility required.
• Successful completion of Microbiology (BIOL& 260); on-campus experience is preferred, but online students are welcome to apply.
• Availability to be on campus for an agreed-upon work schedule.
• Adaptability to different working environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Completion of at least one quarter at LCC is preferred but not required.
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or above.
• Stay in good academic standing each quarter.
• Availability to work at least 10 hours per week in 2-3 hour blocks.
• Work Schedule & Compensation:
• Work 10-15 hours per week.
• Shifts typically range from 2-4 hours and are scheduled during weekday lab and lecture times.
• Paydays are on the 10th and 25th of each month.
• Professional Development Opportunities:
• Gain valuable laboratory skills, including aseptic techniques, experimental design, and data analysis.
• Develop leadership and teaching experience by supporting students and faculty.
• Network with faculty and peers pursuing careers in microbiology, health sciences, and related fields.
• Build a strong foundation for future careers or graduate studies in microbiology, biology, or health-related disciplines.
• Application Process:To apply for the Microbiology Student Leader position, please submit the following:
• A completed application form.
• A resume highlighting relevant experience (e.g., coursework, lab work, or tutoring experience).
• A brief statement (250-500 words) describing your career-specific goals and how this role can support your growth.
• Interview Process:Candidates will participate in an individual interview, either in person or via Zoom.
  
  

Timeline

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for upcoming academic quarters. Be sure to specify which quarter you are applying for in your application.
• Training for new Microbiology Student Leaders typically begins at the start of each academic term.
  
  

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lower Columbia College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and ADA Amendment Act, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act and Washington State's Law Against Discrimination, Chapter 49.60 RCW and their implementing regulations. All Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX, access, equal opportunity and/or grievance procedures should be directed to Kendra Sprague, Vice President of Foundation, HR & Legal Affairs, 1600 Maple Street, PO Box 3010, Longview, WA 98632, title9@lowercolumbia.edu, Phone number, (360) 442-2120, Phone number/TTY (800) 833-6388.

• Learn more on our Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment page.Â
• The college is compliant with Title IX best practices. For more information, visit About Title IX.
• The college encourages qualified members of protected classes to apply. Â
  
  

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

LCC celebrates and embraces diversity of all kinds, including differing beliefs, cultures, people, and experiences. We commit to institutional and individual changes that recognize, understand, and challenge patterns of social inequity and systemic disparities within our ever-changing world. For more information, see Diversity & Equity.

Jeanne Clery Statement: Notice of Availability of Annual Security and Fire Safety Report:

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act of 1998, and as a part of the College's commitment to safety and security on campus, Lower Columbia College reports the mandated information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, the required statistics, and other related information for the past three (3) calendar years. Lower Columbia College's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at lowercolumbia.edu/CleryASFR.

Mission, Vision & Values

Our Mission, Vision & Values define our reason for being, and provide the framework for planning and improvement efforts at LCC. For details on LCC's Mission, Vision & Values, see our Strategic Plan.

Application Procedure and Requirements

An Online Application Must Be Completed For Consideration. Paper Submissions Or Emailed Materials Will Not Be Accepted. A Complete Application Must Also Include The Following Documents (attached Or In The Online Application Itself)

• Resume
• Cover Letter (Letter of Interest)
• Work study award letter (if you are unable to attach during application process, this will still be required prior to employment in a work study position)
• Unofficial transcripts (if applicable)
  
  

Upon request, accommodations are available for persons with disabilities for the Lower Columbia College hiring process. Please contact Human Resources to request an accommodation. The Human Resources Office is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Conditions of Employment

• If you are hired, you will need to provide proof of identity and documentation of U.S. citizenship or appropriate legal authorization to work for the duration of this position as required by the Immigration Reform Control Act of 1995.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Â Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
• The College is committed to maintain an environment for teaching and learning which is free of drugs and alcohol.
  
  

Lower Columbia College Human Resources

For any questions regarding this job advertisement and/or department or campus culture, please call our Human Resources office at (360) 442-2120, or email us directly at hr@lowercolumbia.edu.Â

Anticipated Start Date

LCC offers two start dates for new employees - the 1st and 16th or the closest working day.