Research Aide

Screen reader users may encounter difficulty with this site. For assistance with applying, please contact hr-accessibleapplication@osu.edu. If you have questions while submitting an application, please review these frequently asked questions.

Current Employees and Students:

If you are currently employed or enrolled as a student at The Ohio State University, please log in to Workday to use the internal application process.

Welcome to The Ohio State University's career site.  We invite you to apply to positions of interest. In order to ensure your application is complete, you must complete the following:

• Ensure you have all necessary documents available when starting the application process. You can review the additional job description section on postings for documents that may be required.

• Prior to submitting your application, please review and update (if necessary) the information in your candidate profile as it will transfer to your application. 

Job Title:

Research Aide

Department:

FAES | Plant Pathology

Location: Kottman Hall, Columbus Campus
Department: Plant Pathology
Lab: The Emerging Infectious Disease Ecology Laboratory (TEIDEL)
Position Type: Full-Time, Term position.

Position Summary

The Emerging Infectious Disease Ecology Laboratory (TEIDEL) seeks a motivated and detail-oriented Research Technician to support ongoing research in plant pathology and microbial ecology. The lab investigates complex biological processes using diverse model systems, with a focus on reproducibility and interdisciplinary collaboration.

This position involves hands-on laboratory work with plant and bacterial materials, molecular biology techniques, and seasonal fieldwork. The successful candidate will contribute to multiple independent research projects, assist in maintaining a BSL2 and BSL2-P Select Agent laboratory, and support the lab’s daily operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform standard molecular biology and biochemical techniques including:
  • DNA/RNA extraction
  • Agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
  • Molecular cloning
• Propagate plant seed and cutting stocks; assist with fieldwork as needed
• Prepare essential research reagents and materials
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure a clean, organized lab environment
• Attend lab meetings and participate in microscopy training
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and biosafety regulations
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records and research progress reports
• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator to:
  • Develop research goals
  • Design and implement experiments
  • Generate preliminary data for grant proposals
• Maintain and update standard operating procedures, chemical hygiene plans, and biological safety protocols
• Schedule meetings and manage lab calendars

Minimum Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED
• 0 years of relevant experience (training will be provided)

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a research laboratory setting
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Interest in plant pathology, microbiology, or infectious disease ecology

Work Environment

• Located at Kottman Hall on the Columbus campus
• Work includes both laboratory and occasional field settings
• Requires adherence to biosafety protocols in BSL2 and BSL2-P environments

Additional Information:

This job profile is a Research Technician 1 (T1 level) on the career roadmap.

The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications

Location:

Kottman Hall (0340)

Position Type:

Term (Fixed Term)

Scheduled Hours:

40

Shift:

First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check.  A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medic