Research Associate

Job Title: Research Associate
Location: Johnston, IA 50131
Duration: 12+ Months (Possible extension)
Shift: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4pm

Position Summary
Seeking a full-time contract Research Associate to support the Media Lab within Clients Biotechnology Lab Operations - Expert Central Lab Services (ECLS) team. This role is critical to preparing high-quality culture media for biotechnology research and production. The ideal candidate will be scientifically skilled, physically capable, and able to multitask in a fast-paced lab environment.

Responsibilities:
Media Preparation & Support

• Prepare plant tissue culture media using established protocols
• Adjust formulations and troubleshoot with scientists
• Track and prioritize media requests using lab systems

Lab Operations & Maintenance

• Clean and maintain lab equipment regularly
• Manage chemical inventory
• Communicate with internal teams on media quality and delivery timelines

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety, ergonomic, and aseptic procedures
• Ensure compliance with chemical handling and biological hazard protocols

Physical & Multitasking Requirements

• Stand for extended periods during lab work
• Lift and move materials weighing 20-45 lbs.
• Perform repetitive hand and arm movements with ergonomic awareness
• Handle multiple tasks efficiently in a high-throughput lab environment

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, agronomy, chemistry, or related field
• Strong foundation in chemistry, math, and biology
• Experience with aseptic techniques and standard lab practices
• Ability to multitask and work independently
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Fluent in English (spoken, written, reading)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in media preparation or plant tissue culture
• Familiarity with regulated lab environments and safety protocols
• Prior experience in production or research lab settings

Special Equipment Required

• water resistant shoes, prescription safety glasses if applicable