Job Details

Research Associate 1 Hourly

The Research Associate will contribute to advancing the lab's research program on plant-microbiome symbiosis. This position is designed for an individual capable of performing independent research, including conducting experiments and analyzing results related to plant-microbiome interactions. In addition to research activities, the Research Associate will assist with daily laboratory operations, including maintaining cultures, managing supplies, supporting students and trainees, and ensuring smooth lab workflows.

Duties Include:

• 60% Collects samples and/or specimens for research, analysis, and instruction on plant-microbiome symbiosis, including experiment design. Prepares and provides routine analysis of experiments (e.g., cell culture separation and identification) according to established procedures. Conducts basic diagnostic procedures utilizing scientific equipment and records the results.
• 30% Prepares lab/research solutions, drugs, chemicals, supplies, and reagents and administers and documents the results within established parameters. Provides care for scientific instruments and equipment used.
• 10% Support lab members and trainees by providing technical guidance, coordinating shared resources, and contributing to a collaborative research environment.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry or closely related field.

Specific experience with demonstrated proficiency in molecular microbiology techniques and benchwork.

Job Competencies required: Proficient in technical proficiency, including skills in molecular microbiology techniques, with the ability to perform experiments independently. Beginner in laboratory management, with capabilities of maintaining an organized and safe lab environment; and works effectively as part of a research team, providing support to colleagues and communicating results clearly in both written and verbal formats.

Preferred Qualifications: 1 or more years of laboratory research experience and/or prior research experience in plant-microbiome systems or microbial ecology. Familiarity with data analysis tools and experimental design.

Additional Job Description:

Special Instructions:

Please submit a current CV and contact information of 3 references. An official transcript showing the highest degree obtained will be needed prior to hire. For questions or concerns regarding the position, please contact Lori Bond at ...@lsu.edu.

Posting Date: November 21, 2025

Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified): March 21, 2026

Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N): LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university's ability to employ individuals in certain positions.

HCM Contact Information:

For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-###-#### or email ...@lsu.edu. For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.