Research Assistant

Job Title

Research Assistant

Job Description

This is a research assistant position in the School of Biology and Ecology at the University of Maine with the Tan lab. Responsibilities focus primarily on activities of plant genetics laboratory at the University of Maine and as part of NSF-DBT synthetic biology research project, although the research assistant will perform duties pertaining to other grant funded projects. The research assistant conducts laboratory- and field-based scientific research following established protocols, organizes and manages data, gives presentations for scientific and lay audiences, and assists in preparing scientific publications. Much of these tasks are completed in coordination with other members of the lab, including a Postdoctoral Fellow, Research Associate and faculty supervisors. Typical hiring salary for this soft-money funded position is $37,500.00 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Qualifications: Required

• Typically has the education associated with a bachelor's degree in biology, plant sciences, biological sciences, botany, or other related field, and at least one year of molecular biology, plant care, and greenhouse experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience conducting laboratory and field work.
• Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in teams with students, research associates, and the faculty supervisor.

Qualifications: Preferred

• Previous experience in microscopy, histology and cytology in preparation of chromosome spreads from roots, and meiotic spreads from Arabidopsis germlines.
• Previous experience in molecular biology such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, RT-qPCR, data analysis and microscopy techniques.
• Previous experience conducting research in plant genetics including plant tissue culture, greenhouse maintenance and associated field work.

Other Information

To be considered for this position you will need to "Apply" and upload the documentation listed below:

• a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position
• a resume/curriculum vitae

Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.

Incomplete application materials cannot be considered. Materials received after the initial review date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University. For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on September 15, 2026.

For questions about the search, please contact search committee chair E. Han Tan at View email address on click.appcast.io. The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening.

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling View phone number on click.appcast.io, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator at