Assists higher-level researchers with following established protocols to construct genetically modified bacterial strains. This includes assisting with designing primers, PCR, cloning, bacterial transformation, growth, and propagation. Assists PI to work collaboratively with graduate students and postdocs to design and carry out physiological experiments that dissect the life cycle of phytobacteria. Maintains basic records, observations, data analysis, and interpretations of experimental results for effective team science. Helps with laboratory maintenance, cleaning and sterilization of lab ware used for research, preparation of sterile media, buffers, and laboratory stock reagents, growth, and long-term maintenance of bacterial cultures. Assists higher level researchers with technical reports, research summary reports, and protocols for the laboratory. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge and background in Microbial Genetics. Ability to communicate effectively with peer team members and supervisors. Detail-oriented note taking skills.