Research Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Research Assistant – Plant Cell Biology

Location: San Diego, CA
Pay Rate: $21–$25/hour
Assignment: Temporary, 3–4 month contract
Employer: BioPhase Solutions

About the Role

BioPhase Solutions is seeking a Research Assistant – Plant Cell Biology to support the cell biology and plant tissue culture operations of a leading agricultural biotechnology company in San Diego.

This is a hands-on laboratory role supporting the generation and advancement of plants through a cell biology production pipeline. The ideal candidate will have experience with aseptic technique, cell or tissue culture, and laboratory procedures in a biotechnology or research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform day-to-day plant cell and tissue culture activities to support the cell biology production pipeline.
• Conduct in vitro germination and micropropagation of plant material.
• Support microspore culture for the generation of haploid plants.
• Perform protoplast isolation and culture and support shoot regeneration activities.
• Collect tissue samples for molecular screening and quality control testing.
• Propagate and prepare selected plants for transfer from the laboratory to product development teams.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory notebooks and electronic records.
• Utilize laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and assist with database development and maintenance.
• Follow established SOPs and laboratory procedures.
• Assist with troubleshooting and implementation of quality control measures to minimize production loss and improve process efficiency.
• Provide training and guidance to new team members as needed.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with aseptic techniques and cell culture or tissue culture.
• Strong laboratory skills and ability to consistently follow established SOPs.
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory documentation and electronic records.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work effectively in a team-based laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, molecular cloning, and other DNA manipulation methods.
• Familiarity with functional assays in plant and/or yeast systems.
• Previous experience working with plant tissue culture, micropropagation, protoplasts, or related plant biotechnology techniques is highly desirable.