Assistant Research Scientist

About the role

The Assistant Research Scientist will support cutting‑edge research on honey bee health within the Entomology department of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. This position combines laboratory work, diagnostic testing, grant support, and mentorship of students and post‑doctoral researchers.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on honey bee health, pathogens, parasites and applied apicultural science.
• Perform molecular and microbiological analyses, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, and data collection.
• Receive, log, process and analyze honey bee samples in the diagnostic laboratory and maintain accurate records.
• Assist with grant proposal preparation, budgeting, progress reporting and compliance for externally funded projects.
• Mentor and train undergraduate and graduate students, student workers and postdoctoral researchers in laboratory techniques and research methods.
• Prepare presentation materials and represent the laboratory at workshops, meetings and outreach events.

Required profile

• Experience conducting laboratory‑based research in entomology or related life‑science fields.
• Ability to manage laboratory inventory, equipment maintenance and safety compliance.
• Proficiency in documenting research findings and contributing to scientific manuscripts.
• Strong organizational skills for coordinating research projects, purchasing and sample tracking.

Required skills

• Molecular biology techniques (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, qPCR).
• Microbiological analysis and sample preparation.
• Laboratory equipment operation and maintenance.
• Data collection and basic statistical analysis.
• Use of laboratory databases and sample tracking systems.
• Grant writing and preparation of technical reports.
• Presentation development for scientific and stakeholder audiences.