Inside Higher Ed
Departmental Assistant -Laboratory of Medical Zoology
Inside Higher Ed, Amherst, Massachusetts, us, 01002
Departmental Assistant – Laboratory of Medical Zoology
Job No: 528923
Location: UMass Amherst
Department: Microbiology
Work Type: Hourly
Union: Non-Benefited
Categories: Temporary Non-Benefited
Job Summary Department Assistant position at the University of Massachusetts Amherst performing laboratory testing and experimentation procedures in support of research and service activities in the Laboratory of Medical Zoology (LMZ).
Essential Functions
Perform all duties in compliance with the current QA/QC plan and standard SOPs.
Process tick/mosquito/rodent specimens from a variety of public and agency sources.
Conduct DNA/RNA extraction.
Conduct molecular diagnostics (conventional PCR, qPCR and sequencing) of prepared samples.
Report results to clients and agencies and participate in maintenance/curating of database.
Perform general maintenance and operational duties.
Participate in routine lab cleaning and maintenance (glassware, instrument service, ordering, etc.).
Other Functions
Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.
Perform other related duties as assigned by Director of Laboratory Operations.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.
Minimum Qualifications
B.S. in Biology or related field (e.g., Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Public Health, or other) or an equivalent combination of education and training.
Minimum of one year lab experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with whole nucleic extractions and PCR.
General knowledge of biology, particularly molecular biology (hands-on experience preferred but not necessary).
Strong communication skills (written and spoken word) are essential.
Good organizational and record-keeping skills.
Familiarity with spreadsheets and/or database software.
Physical Demands / Working Conditions
Typical lab environment.
Work Schedule
Monday – Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm.
This is a temporary, non-benefited position.
Salary Information
$17.00 - $25.00 per hour.
Special Instructions to Applicants Please submit letter of application, resume, and contact information for three (3) references.
EEO Statement The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
Application Closing Date Applications close: Jan 30 2026 Eastern Standard Time.
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Job Summary Department Assistant position at the University of Massachusetts Amherst performing laboratory testing and experimentation procedures in support of research and service activities in the Laboratory of Medical Zoology (LMZ).
Essential Functions
Perform all duties in compliance with the current QA/QC plan and standard SOPs.
Process tick/mosquito/rodent specimens from a variety of public and agency sources.
Conduct DNA/RNA extraction.
Conduct molecular diagnostics (conventional PCR, qPCR and sequencing) of prepared samples.
Report results to clients and agencies and participate in maintenance/curating of database.
Perform general maintenance and operational duties.
Participate in routine lab cleaning and maintenance (glassware, instrument service, ordering, etc.).
Other Functions
Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.
Perform other related duties as assigned by Director of Laboratory Operations.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.
Minimum Qualifications
B.S. in Biology or related field (e.g., Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Public Health, or other) or an equivalent combination of education and training.
Minimum of one year lab experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with whole nucleic extractions and PCR.
General knowledge of biology, particularly molecular biology (hands-on experience preferred but not necessary).
Strong communication skills (written and spoken word) are essential.
Good organizational and record-keeping skills.
Familiarity with spreadsheets and/or database software.
Physical Demands / Working Conditions
Typical lab environment.
Work Schedule
Monday – Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm.
This is a temporary, non-benefited position.
Salary Information
$17.00 - $25.00 per hour.
Special Instructions to Applicants Please submit letter of application, resume, and contact information for three (3) references.
EEO Statement The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
Application Closing Date Applications close: Jan 30 2026 Eastern Standard Time.
#J-18808-Ljbffr