Description

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued-and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

Job Summary

Department Assistant position at the University of Massachusetts Amherst performing laboratory testing and experimentation procedures in support of research and service activities in the Laboratory of Medical Zoology (LMZ).

Essential Functions

• Perform all duties in compliance with the current QA/QC plan and standard SOPs.
• Process tick/mosquito/rodent specimens from a variety of public and agency sources.
• Conduct DNA/RNA extraction.
• Conduct molecular diagnostics (conventional PCR, qPCR and sequencing) of prepared samples.
• Report results to clients and agencies and participate in maintenance/curating of database.
• Perform general maintenance and operational duties.
• Participate in routine lab cleaning and maintenance (glassware, instrument service, ordering, etc.).

Other Functions

• Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
• Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by Director of Laboratory Operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• B.S. in Biology or related field (eg. Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Public Health, or other), or an equivalent combination of education and training.
• Minimum of one year lab experience required.

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Experience with whole nucleic extractions and PCR.
• General knowledge of biology, particularly molecular biology (hands on experience preferred but not necessary).
• Strong communication skills (written and spoken word) are essential.
• Good organizational and record keeping skills.
• Familiarity with spreadsheets and/or database software.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

• Typical lab environment.

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm.
• This is a temporary, non-benefited position.

Salary Information

• $17.00 - $25.00 per hour.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please submit letter of application, resume and contact information for three (3) references.

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. You can find these values and goals at: Inclusive Excellence : College of Natural Sciences : UMass Amherst, and For the Common Good - 2024-2034 : Strategic Plan : UMass Amherst.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Advertised: Nov 4 2025 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Jan 27 2026 Eastern Standard Time