Student Laboratory Assistant

Student will work on the Metal bioavailability project. She/he shall be expected to complete or assist project lead(s) with multiple tasks that may include:  preparing water, sediment/soil and biological samples (mainly invertebrates and algae) for metal analyses following standard operating procedures; analyzing water, sediment/soil and biological samples for metals; checking data quality using standard techniques and bringing potential problems to the attention of project lead(s), weighing samples, preparing standard solutions for analytical calibration curves; filtering water samples, measuring pH and/or conductivity, cleaning labware, maintaining invertebrate and algal cultures, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, entering data into spreadsheets and databases, compiling data, cleaning labware, sweeping and additional tasks that may be assigned based on worker’s aptitude. Assistance with biological, geological, or soil science fieldwork is also required. Inquire for further job requirements.

Student shall have knowledge of general principles of chemistry and biology, in addition to skills in applying standard laboratory techniques and use of related equipment (such as volumetric flasks, analytical balance, pH meter, pipets). She/he must also possess basic skills in writing presentations of scientific data as well as knowledge of basic computer operations and programs (such as Microsoft Word and Excel).  Student must pay attention to details, follow written and oral directions, be reliable, punctual, responsible, and able to work independently and with others. In addition, student must be motivated and enthusiastic about science, willing to learn how to work in a laboratory, able to communicate and comfortable with doing repetitious tasks. The student must be a licensed driver, as operation of Government vehicles may be required.