Research Associate/Lab Manager

The Jennings Lab studies how the opportunistic bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa adapts to changing environments and persists during infection. Current research focuses on bacterial epigenetics and biofilm biology. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research projects while supporting the day-to-day operation and organization of the laboratory. Research responsibilities will include conducting experiments, developing and optimizing protocols, analyzing data, and communicating research findings. Laboratory management responsibilities will include maintaining inventory and laboratory organization, ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, training students, and supporting laboratory safety and regulatory compliance. The position offers opportunities for collaboration, manuscript preparation, conference participation, and mentorship of students.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct and analyze microbiological, molecular, and biochemical experiments.
• Develop and optimize research protocols and communicate findings.
• Manage laboratory ordering, inventory, equipment, and organization.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory reagents, media, and research materials.
• Train and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Maintain laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.

Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

• Master’s Degree or Bachelor’s degree and 2+ years of experience in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.

• Demonstrated laboratory research experience.

• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

• Experience in microbiology and molecular biology research, particularly bacterial genetics, molecular cloning, bacterial culturing, and/or biofilm biology.

• Experience with laboratory management, inventory, ordering, or equipment maintenance.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Willingness to learn new research techniques.

The Successful Candidate Will

• Effectively prioritize tasks and manage time with minimal supervision
• Demonstrate attention to detail and enthusiasm for scientific research
• Contribute positively to a collaborative laboratory environment

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Physical Demands

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

This position has supervisory duties?

No

Posting Detail Information

Number of Vacancies

1

Desired Start Date

Position End Date (if temporary)

Open Date

Close Date

Applications will be:

Screening of applications will begin on October 30, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

Special Instructions

This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.

EEO Statement

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.

In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.