Lab Assistant - Department of Biological Sciences

Clemson is calling...are you ready to answer the call?

One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students, faculty and staff whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.

Clemson has recently been named a top 25 public college in the country by the Wall Street Journal, a top South Carolina employer by Forbes and a Military Friendly Employer for five years running. Through our research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects, Clemson University and its employees are driving economic development and improving quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.

So,... are you ready?

Support field and laboratory tasks associated with an NSF PCE grant on the subject of woody invasive species. Outdoor activities include fieldwork in Clemson Experimental Forest. Lab and growth room activities may include plant growth measurements, chemical assays, construction of environmental sensors, and data entry. Other duties as assigned.

50% - Essential - Participate in field activities in Clemson University Forest, under the direction of PI and Lab Manager, alongside graduate students. Activities include leaf sampling, plant harvesting, herbivory measurements, experimental maintenance (weeding, mowing) and the use of portable handheld devices for measuring plant water status as needed.

40% - Essential - Conduct laboratory assays of leaf, stem, and root material, and build electronic sensors. Activities involve oven drying and weighing of all plant material, photographic analysis, and preparation of samples for chemical analysis. Sensors are built with existing protocols and require no specialized training. All activities under the direction of the lab manager.

10% - Essential - Assists with data entry, lab organization, and cleanliness protocols, under the direction of the supervisor and lab manager

Education - A high school diploma and work experience in a related health care setting or in a clinical or research laboratory setting; or 12 semester hours of academic training in biology and/or chemistry; or registration as a Certified Laboratory Assistant by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists or an equivalent registry; or successful completion of a formal program of instruction for laboratory assistants at a hospital or academic institution.

Work Experience 0+ years

Education - Bachelor's Degree - Biology, Ecology, or related field
Work Experience 1+ years past fieldwork in outdoor settings preferred; driver's license and access to a personal vehicle preferred

JOB KNOWLEDGE
Fundamental Job Knowledge - Fundamental working knowledge of concepts, practices and procedures and ability to apply in varied situations

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
No Supervisory Duties - Not responsible for supervising employees.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES
No Budget Responsibilities - No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

15% - Stand for prolonged period
15% - Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period
20% - Walk or move about
10% - Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc
5% - Position self to accomplish task (i.e. stoop, kneel, crawl)
20% - Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself
25% - Recognize or inspect visually
10% - Move, transport, raise or lower
20% - Extends hands or arms in any direction
30% - Perceive, observe, clarity of vision

10% - Exposure to heat or cold
10% - Wet or humid

Standard Hours: 37.5

Approximate dates of this temporary assignment: May-November 2026

Anticipated Salary Range: $14.76-$16.00/hour

Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.

Normal Operations

Required to follow emergency facility closure directives, and not normally expected work on-site during emergency situations.

Clemson, SC

April 30, 2026

MILITARY EQUIVALENCY:
Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

VETERAN PREFERENCE:
South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

State policy for veteran preference states that for qualifying, full-time permanent positions, a veteran applicant may receive preference if they meet the job's minimum qualifications, were discharged under honorable conditions from the military, and submit their DD-214 for confidential review by the Office of Human Resources.

To claim Veteran Preference for qualifying positions, email hrjob@clemson.edu upon submission of your application.

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.