Food Microbiology Research Lab Technician

Responsibilities

• Execute basic research laboratory experiments related to food microbiology safety and plant pathology
• Perform routine microbiological testing, including culturing and isolating microorganisms and plating serial dilutions
• Collect environmental samples in agricultural fields and greenhouses
• Use molecular techniques to identify and isolate bacterial and fungal cultures
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory equipment and methodologies
• Document research results and maintain technical reports
• Troubleshoot, calibrate, and maintain microbiological testing equipment and supplies
• Maintain laboratory compliance with BSL-2 safety and housekeeping standards
• Assist with data entry, management, and scientific literature reviews

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Molecular Biology, Agriculture, Plant Pathology, or a closely related field
• Knowledge of molecular biology laboratory techniques
• Ability to work in BSL-2 environments containing biological safety hazards
• Ability to lift, move, or carry samples and lab equipment up to 50 pounds
• Valid driver's license
• Strong mathematical skills, including the ability to apply exponents, logarithms, and quadratic equations

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field
• Experience with fungal and bacterial isolation, qRT-PCR, and nucleic acid extraction
• Experience setting up, calibrating, and repairing laboratory equipment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams)

About the Company

Central State University is a leading institution dedicated to research and development. This position is part of the Agriculture Research Development Program (ARDP) Food Safety Research Program, funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) through the Evans Allen Program.