Washington State University Extension in Bellingham is searching for a temporary (3 month) full time (5 days/week, 8hrs/day) Research Assistant to support agricultural research activities at the WSU Whatcom County Extension office in Bellingham, WA. **This position is a temporary, time-limited position for approximately 3 months: June-August 2026**
Duties will include:
+ Distinguishing and separating seed from soil and other organic material under amicroscope
+ Monitoring and watering seed germination tests in growth chamber
+ Data tabulation and data entry
+ Documentation of research activities
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and reliable team member to work with us on the lab portion of several agricultural research projects. This will involve work at a desk/microscope and using special equipment to separate seed from other organic matter and soil from field samples. In addition this position will assist another research assistant in maintenance (primarily watering) of germination tests in a growth chamber onsite. The position is a limited 3 month appointment.
Required qualifications:
• Washington Drivers License
• Ability to lift heavy objects (30 lbs)
Preferred qualifications:
• Bachelors degree in plant sciences, crop and soil sciences or related field OR work experience or coursework in these subjects
• Field/lab research experience
Compensation:
• $19.64/hr depending on qualifications
Timeframe:
• Applications will be reviewed as they are received
• Application deadline: Monday, June 8, 2026 (applications will be reviewed as they are submitted)
To apply please send the following materials to the contact for this posting.
• A brief cover letter (Please include a current email address)
• Resume
• Contact information for 3 reference
