Job TitleLaboratory Technician Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Nutrition Proposed Minimum Salary$15.85 hourly Job LocationCollege Station, Texas Job TypeStaff Job Description The Estrela Lab in the department of Nutrition at Texas A&M University is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join a newly established research group. We study how microbial interactions and environmental factors shape the structure and function of microbial communities, with a focus on the human gut microbiome. The Laboratory Technician will play a key role in organizing and supporting the lab as it grows, maintaining laboratory equipment and compliance, and assisting with experimental work. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys learning new protocols, is comfortable with lab equipment, and values a collaborative, team-oriented environment. Key responsibilities: Maintain lab inventory and order supplies and parts as needed Ensures lab biosafety and chemical safety compliance Assemble, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lab equipment and lab computers Maintain an organized and well-documented inventory of biological samples Communicate with vendors for supplies purchases and equipment purchases and repairs Provide training to new lab members Assist lab members with research projects Handle incoming and outgoing shipments Maintain cleanliness and organization of shared lab spaces Assist in protocol development Develop organizational systems for materials and workflow Maintain detailed and organized records of lab activities Perform other duties as assigned to ensure smooth and efficient lab functioning and support ongoing research Required Education and Experience: Associate degree in microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, biophysics, or a related field Minimum of 1 year experience in a research lab setting Hands-on experience with microbiological and molecular biology procedures (e.g., bacterial cul turing, bacterial isolation, DNA extraction, PCR) Preferred Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, biophysics, or a related field 2+ years of wet-lab research experience Experience working in a BSL-2 lab Required knowledge, skills and abilities: Excellent organizational skills Excellent communication skills Strong troubleshooting skills and comfort working with lab equipment Ability to multi task and work cooperatively with others Ability to lift and move medium weight objects Preferred knowledge, skills and abilities: Strong interest in learning new protocols Strong interest in supporting a collaborative lab culture Familiarity with basic computing and programing Interest in microbiology and/or microbial ecology Other information Remote work is not available for this position To apply: Please submit the following materials: - CV - Brief summary of previous research experience - Cover letter describing why you would like to join the Estrela lab and how this position fits into your future career goals -Names and contact information for 3 references Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institutions verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institutions procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check. Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. As the largest comprehensive agriculture and life sciences program nationally, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies within the Texas A&M University System With over 5,000 employees, and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, the environment, and the economy of Texas and the nation through education, research, extension and service. If your goal is the pursuit of excellence and your vision is to make a difference in this world, we invite you to explore our opportunities to discover what a career at Texas A&M AgriLife has to offer you. Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Texas A&M AgriLife Research College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University Texas A&M Forest Service Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Texas A&M AgriLife collaborates with Prairie View A&M University, Tarleton State University, Texas A&M University-Commerce, Texas A&M University-Kingsville and West Texas A&M University as well as with other public and private partners. Prospective employee benefits Retirement programs Commitment to inclusive excellence Strategic plan