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Assistant Biological Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$50K - $65K/yr

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Assistant Biological Science information

What can I do with an associate in biological science?

An associate degree in biological science prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as laboratory technician, research assistant, or biological technician. These positions often require knowledge of lab equipment, data analysis, and safety protocols, and may lead to further education or certification for advanced opportunities.

What is the difference between Assistant Biological Science vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAssistant Biological ScienceLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in biology or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, educational institutions, biotech companiesMedical, research, or industrial laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research support rolesCompared for technical lab support positions

The Assistant Biological Science and Laboratory Technician roles share similarities in work environments and required credentials, often overlapping in research and lab settings. However, assistants typically focus on supporting research activities, while laboratory technicians handle more technical, hands-on testing and equipment operation. Both roles are essential in scientific and medical labs, but their specific responsibilities and certifications differ slightly.

What can I do with an assistant biological science degree?

An assistant biological science degree prepares individuals for roles such as laboratory technician, research assistant, or biological technician, involving tasks like data collection, sample analysis, and supporting scientific experiments. These positions often require knowledge of lab equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certification in specific techniques. Career advancement may involve gaining experience or pursuing further education in biological sciences.

What jobs can I do with assistant biological science?

An assistant biological science role typically involves supporting research, laboratory work, or field studies in biological or environmental sciences. Common jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, environmental technician, or biological technician, often requiring knowledge of lab equipment, data collection, and safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant biological scientists in laboratory settings?

Assistant Biological Scientists often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and consistency in data collection. Adhering to strict safety protocols and handling hazardous materials requires attention to detail and discipline. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can be demanding but also provide valuable learning experiences. Strong organizational skills and effective communication are essential to navigate these challenges successfully.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant biological scientist?

To thrive as an Assistant Biological Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, with strong laboratory and research skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and techniques such as PCR, microscopy, and chromatography is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure accurate data collection, reliable research results, and successful collaboration within scientific projects.

What is an assistant biological science?

Assistant Biological Science jobs typically involve supporting research and laboratory work in the biological sciences. Individuals in these roles assist senior scientists and researchers with experiments, data collection, lab maintenance, and administrative tasks related to biology studies. They may work in academic, government, or private sector labs, and often help prepare samples, maintain equipment, and record findings. These positions are ideal for those starting a career in biology or considering further studies in the field, providing hands-on experience and exposure to a variety of biological research techniques.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Biological Science jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Biological Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Biological Science jobs? The most popular types of Biological Science jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Biological Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Biological Science jobs include:

Biological Science Technician (Osteology), IS-0404-09

Smithsonian Institution

Suitland, MD

$40K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Smithsonian Institution rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 29 rated museums


Job description

OPEN DATE: August 4, 2026                    
CLOSING DATE: August 18, 2026 (This job will close when the first 200 applications are received which may be sooner than the closing date)
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE: Not-To Exceed (NTE) 2 Years
SCHEDULE: Full Time
DUTY LOCATION: Suitland, MD          
 
Position sensitivity and risk
Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Open to all qualified applicants
What are Trust Fund Positions?

Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 

 Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
  • Complete a Probationary Period.
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.
  • The work requires prolonged standing while examining and processing skeletal collections; frequent bending, reaching, and lifting of collection materials; and the movement of collection containers, specimen trays, and storage units weighing up to 40 pounds. The Biological Science Technician for Osteology regularly uses carts, ladders, and other equipment to access and transport collections stored in museum facilities.
  • Normally works in a laboratory or collection area; infrequently performs field work in a variety of settings. May work with chemicals, some potentially hazardous. Proper safety precautions are observed.
Come join a dedicated and creative team at an exceptional time for the Smithsonian, an institution with a bold vision for the future: to build a better tomorrow for all. The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is part of the Smithsonian's unique complex and is one of the most visited museums in the United States.  Its mission is to promote understanding of the natural world and our place in it. NMNH has a collection of 148 million specimens and artifacts. Each one reflects a moment in space and time and in these moments, we find Earth's story.
The National Museum of Natural History is seeking an experienced candidate to fill the Biological Science Technician (Osteology) position within the International Repatriation and Domestic Returns (IRDR) Program, in the Department of Anthropology. The purpose of this position is to perform technical work associated with the documentation of Biological Anthropology collections. The goal of the documentation is to record information pertinent to the determination of biological linkages between human skeletal collections in NMNH and appropriate descendant communities, as needed to provide scientific insights for the potential repatriation of collections and for the permanent record of the museum.
Examines, identifies, and documents human remains in collections that may be subject to repatriation. 
Develops biological profiles by recording age at death, sex, ancestry, and other biological attributes. 
Conducts technical research using existing literature and comparative collections to assist in determining biological ancestry. 
Searches museum records, collections, libraries, archives, and other technical sources for historical and scientific information related to collections. 
Records, organizes, and enters collection information into computerized databases to support interpretation, documentation, and permanent museum records. 
Assists repatriation-related visitors and responds to inquiries concerning biological anthropology collections and repatriation activities.
Education and Experience: To qualify for this position, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, osteology, biological anthropology, forensic anthropology, or a closely related field from an accredited four-year college or university and 3-5 years of related experience (described below); or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience required for this position is as follows:
  • Knowledge of scientific methods, technical procedures, and established practices used in biological anthropology sufficient to independently perform osteological examinations, apply accepted classification techniques, evaluate findings, and support the scientific documentation of collections 
  • Knowledge of scientific and technical literature and other research resources sufficient to conduct technical investigations and resolve identification and classification issues involving biological collections.
  • Knowledge of museum records systems and data management practices sufficient to organize, maintain, verify, and update collection documentation and ensure the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of collection records and computerized databases.
  • Ability to effectively communicate orally with museum staff, researchers, descendant community representatives, and other stakeholders to provide information, explain technical findings, and respond to inquiries related to biological collections and repatriation activities
  • Ability to communicate effectively in writing to prepare documentation, research summaries, correspondence, and reports concerning biological collections, repatriation activities, and related technical matters
  • Ability to organize and manage multiple assignments involving collection examination, documentation, research, and data management while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."

To Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter by the closing date. Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week. 
 (If applicable include) Unofficial school transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) must be submitted with your application package by the closing date of the announcement.  If selected for the position, you must provide official transcripts before appointment.

 Applicants who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States must have their education deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

Any false statement in your application may result in rejection of your application and may also result in termination after employment begins.

What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.

Relocation expenses will not be paid.
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contactNMNHStaffing@si.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  To learn more, please review the Smithsonian's Accommodation Procedures: Individuals with Disabilities | Smithsonian Institution (https://www.si.edu/oeo/individuals-disabilities).

 The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To review The Smithsonian's EEO program information, please click the following:  Office of Equal Opportunity | Smithsonian Institution(https://www.si.edu/oeo).

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