Laboratory Research Assistant Review

As a Laboratory Research Assistant, I supported a molecular biology research project investigating metal tolerance in pea plants, comparing wild-type and metal hyperaccumulating lines grown on store-bought soil or soil collected from areas contaminated with heavy metals. My responsibilities included maintaining and monitoring plant growth under controlled conditions, recording plant growth, phenotypic differences, and ensuring optimal environmental parameters throughout the study.
I collected plant tissue samples at key developmental stages from both soil types. These were processed for downstream molecular and physiological analyses. DNA was extracted using a spin-column method in order to perform genotyping of lines by PCR and Sanger sequencing. In addition, RNA was extracted from plants for gene expression analysis of putative hyperaccumulator genes by RT-PCR. Furthermore, the phytoremediation potential of the hyperaccumulators was investigated using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry to quantify metal concentrations in the soil.
Throughout the project, I strictly adhered to laboratory health and safety protocols, including the use of PPE, handling of chemicals, equipment maintenance, and biological waste disposal. I followed risk assessments for procedures and ensured the safe use of laboratory instruments.
I maintained accurate and detailed records of all experimental procedures, data, and observations in both digital and written formats. These records supported data interpretation and ensured reproducibility. I contributed to data analysis using basic statistical methods and helped generate visual summaries of results for internal discussions.
Regular communication with the researcher was an important part of the role. I reported my weekly findings to him, provided progress updates, and discussed any experimental issues or adaptations.

Yes, I was responsible for looking after the plants and carrying out the experiments, taking notes, and contributing to the statistical tests.

PCR: Amplification, primer design, troubleshooting.
Gel Electrophoresis: DNA, RNA, protein separation.
DNA Sequencing: sample preparation for sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of output

I was supported and received guidance on all new experiments and was shown how to do statistical tests using other software.

The general atmosphere was peaceful with no need to rush, so work was carried out correctly, and the culture was diverse with people from all backgrounds and age groups.

I enjoyed my internship a lot as I learnt many things that I wouldn't usually do during regular laboratory sessions, and was given more independence to decide what I should do and how I should do it.

Yes