Laboratory Assistant

Overview

Tek Wissen is a global workforce management provider headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan that offers strategic talent solutions to our clients world-wide. The below job opportunity is to one of Our clients who is a leading global provider of agricultural science and technology, in particular seeds and crop protection products, with its management headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, and further locations in Chicago, Tel Aviv, and Shanghai.

Laboratory Assistant 2

Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

6 Months

Temporary Assignment

Onsite

Duties:

• Support research operations through insect colony maintenance, media preparation, and laboratory work under the direct supervision of a lead scientist.

• Rear and maintain fall armyworm colonies in controlled environmental conditions (warm, humid environments)
• Collect and handle insects at various life stages
• Prepare specialized insect diets following established protocols
• Monitor colony health and development daily
• Assist with root harvest operations
• Wash and prepare root samples for evaluation
• Clean and sanitize work areas and equipment post-harvest
• Maintain accurate records of rearing activities in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

• Accurately execute routine wet lab experiments and protocols related to plant physiology, microbiology, and molecular biology (e.g., buffer preparation, microbial culturing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, plant tissue handling).
• Perform tasks with precision and attention to detail within a high-throughput laboratory setting, ensuring the quality and integrity of samples and data.
• Maintain thorough and accurate records of experimental procedures, observations, and results in electronic laboratory notebooks (e.g., Benchling).

• Adhere strictly to all laboratory safety guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and quality control measures.
• Maintain organized and clean work environments
• Assist with general lab organization, equipment maintenance, inventory management to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
• Communicate observations and issues to supervising scientists
• Work collaboratively with other team members, providing support for various research and production activities.
• Participate in team meetings and training sessions

• Attention to Detail:
  Ability to follow precise instructions and maintain accurate records
• Manual Dexterity:
  Comfortable handling small insects and delicate plant materials
• Reading Comprehension:
  Ability to read, understand, and execute written protocols
• Data Entry:
  Proficiency with computer systems and LIMS databases
• Communication:
  Clear verbal and written communication with team members
• Physical Stamina:
  Ability to work in warm, humid conditions and perform repetitive tasks
• Time Management:
  Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

• Basic understanding of insect life cycles and development
• Knowledge of plant growth and maintenance
• Foundational experience with microbiology techniques (e.g., aseptic technique, culturing) and/or molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA handling, PCR).
• Previous laboratory or agricultural experience
• Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Tolerance for warm and humid working conditions
• Ability to lift up to 25-30 pounds
• Manual dexterity for handling small specimens and equipment

• Associate degree or coursework in Biology, Entomology, Agriculture, or related field

• Bachelor's degree or coursework in Biology, Entomology, Agriculture, or related field
• Previous experience in laboratory, greenhouse, or agricultural settings

Tek Wissen Group is an equal opportunity employer supporting workforce diversity.