About Us - Values Overview

Department Summary

The BioDiscovery Institute (BDI) gathers a collaborative and multidisciplinary network of scientists targeting development of sustainable biotechnologies that support an environmentally friendly, bio-based economy. We are committed to training the next generation of scientists prepared to solve the health, food, and energy security challenges of tomorrow.

Position Overview

The Research Assistant will contribute to projects focused on enhancing the production of compounds in plants that are valuable for industrial and health-related applications. Working within a team of 3–4 members, the assistant will be responsible for plant growth, daily hand-pollination, and tagging of new flowers. Additional duties include assisting with sterile tissue culture, sample collection and processing, DNA and RNA extractions, and molecular biology techniques. The role also involves using mass spectrometry methods (GC-MS and LC-MS/MS) to examine metabolic profiles across various plant tissues. Finally, the research assistant will manage several aspects of the research lab, such as but not limited to ordering supplies, general lab organization and safety.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree with major course work in the field of assignment, or any equivalent combination of education, experience and training.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of scientific research techniques, methods and procedures. Working knowledge of equipment used in related fields of research. Considerable knowledge of health, safety, and security precautions in keeping with type of research being done. Ability to set up and operate research instrumentation and equipment. Abilityto make accurate assays and to prepare reports, charts, or graphs on results. Ability to work effectively with fellow researchers, staff members, faculty, supervisors and students.

Preferred Qualifications

The preferred candidate will possess the following additional qualifications: Bachelor in biology, food science, crop science, biochemistry, or related field. Prior experience with at least two of the following techniques, sterile culture, protein analysis, lipid analysis, Gas ChromatographyMass Spectrometry (GCMS), HighPerformance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Liquid Chromatography tandem Mass Spectrometry (LCMS/MS). Attention to detail and excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills are desirable.

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Botany or any related area with major coursework in the field of assignment, or any equivalent of education, experience and training preferred.

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Job Duties

• Effective Planning 
• Judgment/ProblemSolving 
• Communication 
• Operates research instrumentation and equipment. 
• Makes and records observations and measurements. 
• Maintains collects plant samples. 
• Manages several aspects of the Alonso Lab. 

Physical Requirements

Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
Moving self in various positions to perform tasks in tight and confined spaces.
Lifting and Moving objects up to 20 pounds.
Communicating with others to exchange information.

Environmental Hazards

Outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind.
Small and/or enclosed spaces.
Exposure to moving mechanical parts or vibration.

Work Schedule

Monday to Friday 8-5, Weekends as needed

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted. 

Benefits

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.