College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences

Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant

Hiring Organization: Michigan State University
Employment type: Temporary
Job Location: East Lansing, MI
Application Due Date: March 30, 2026

Job Summary:

The Plant and Pest Diagnostics laboratory at Michigan State University is seeking a responsible, dedicated undergraduate student to assist diagnosticians with day-to-day activities during the summer. As a laboratory assistant, you will play an essential role in the diagnostic process of samples submitted to the laboratory by a diverse clientele. This position will support various areas of the lab, including plant pathology, entomology, nematology, and weed science, providing you with valuable hands-on experience across a range of diagnostic techniques. You will have the opportunity to work closely with diagnosticians and learn from their expertise in diagnosing plant health and pest-related issues. You will also play an active role in supporting the aster yellows diagnostic network, built to screen carrot and celery leafhoppers for the aster yellows phytoplasma.

Responsibilities:

• Receive and handle plant, soil, and arthropod samples from clients.
• Assist with sample management and record keeping: photographing, tracking, disposing, entering diagnoses, testing soil/media pH and EC to assess potential nutritional problems.
• Prepare microbiology media and buffers.
• Culture plant samples for the isolation of plant pathogens.
• Assist in the preparation and nucleic acid extraction of plant and insect samples.
• Perform conventional and real-time PCR testing (e.g., phytoplasma detection in leafhoppers).
• Water and fertilize greenhouse-grown plants.
• Process plant and soil samples for nematode analysis.
• Maintain a clean and organized working environment in the laboratory and cold storage units.
• Assist with general laboratory and greenhouse upkeep and equipment maintenance.

Desired Qualifications:

• Enrolled undergraduate student in a relevant field of study (e.g., plant science, microbiology, entomology, horticulture, crop and soil sciences, biological science, environmental science, biomolecular science, medical laboratory science, etc.)
• Ability to work independently with little to no supervision, while effectively communicating with supervisors.
• Prior experience working with plants and microbes.
• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction and PCR).
• Attention to detail, excellent record-keeping skills, and ability to follow protocols.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented and fast-paced environment.

This is a temporary summer position set for 40 hours/week at $15/hour.

We welcome applicants with a variety of backgrounds and levels of experience who are eager to learn and gain experience in plant health-related diagnostics.

To apply, please submit (1) a cover letter and (2) a resume highlighting your interest in the position, relevant experience, and qualifications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.