Essential Job Duties

The Research Assistant will support a multidisciplinary research program focused on the development of CRISPR-based genetic control technologies for the New World screwworm and related blowfly species. This includes work on gene drive systems and precision-guided sterile insect techniques (pgSIT). The position integrates laboratory operations, insect colony management, biosafety compliance, and hands-on experimental support for genetic and molecular studies.

Duties Include:

• Maintain fly stocks and provide staff with biological material at different stages of development when requested.
• Support postdoctoral fellows by performing blow fly crosses, examining the progeny and setting additional crosses with selected offspring.
• Purchase supplies.
• Autoclaving insect waste.
• Supervise undergraduate students who support insect rearing.

Other Work/Responsibilities:

• Responsible for ensuring that all safety/biosafety requirements are met.
• Update safety plan and SOP for BUA as needed.

Minimum Experience/Education:

• Relevant Master's degree OR
• Relevant Bachelor's degree and 3 or more years of relevant experience, or relevant independent experience and education

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to:
  • Operate microscopes
  • Use pipette man
  • Work with live insects in cages
  • Operate autoclave

Preferred Qualifications:

MS in entomology or related discipline

Required License or Certification:

Valid NC Driver's License