ATS, or Applicant Tracking Systems, are tools companies use to scan resumes for keywords. For a Biology Laboratory Assistant role, this means your resume must match the exact terms from job postings. Think of it like a robot reading your resume—no creativity, just clear keywords.

• Use standard sections like "Work Experience" and "Skills." Avoid fancy headers like "Lab Wizardry."
• Include keywords from job descriptions, like "PCR," "microscope operation," or "lab software." If a job says "MS Excel," don’t write "spreadsheet tools."
• Stick to plain text. No tables, headers, or images. ATS can’t read them.
• Use clear fonts (Arial, Times New Roman) and save as PDF or Word. Avoid .pages or .odt files.

Missing a keyword? The robot flags your resume. Used a table for skills? The robot skips it. Keep it simple and keyword-focused.

As a Biology Laboratory Assistant, your resume needs a clean, reverse-chronological layout. This format highlights your hands-on experience with lab equipment and protocols, which employers prioritize. Use a single page if you have less than 5 years of experience; two pages are okay for senior roles at companies like Runolfsson-Gottlieb.

Stick to 11pt Arial or Calibri. Avoid decorative fonts—they confuse ATS systems. Use 1.15 line spacing and 1-inch margins. White space is key. For example, separate sections with clear headings like 'Laboratory Experience' and 'Technical Skills'.

Common mistakes to avoid: Using columns (ATS can't parse these), fancy graphics (like the template Wolf and Bahringer used in 2022), or inconsistent bullet points. Instead, use simple lists with action verbs like 'Operated', 'Analyzed', and 'Maintained'.

Writing a cover letter for a Biology Laboratory Assistant role means showing you understand the science behind the job. Your letter should highlight hands-on lab experience and attention to detail. This role needs someone who can follow protocols precisely and handle equipment like microscopes or centrifuges.

Key sections to focus on:

• Header: Include your phone, email, and the hiring manager's name/company address
• Opening: Mention where you found the job opening and your strongest lab-related skill
• Body: Share 2 specific lab experiences (like sample preparation or data collection) using technical terms like PCR or ELISA
• Closing: Express eagerness to contribute to their research projects

Use active language that shows you're proactive about experiments. Talk about how you've handled lab equipment safely or followed safety protocols. Keep each paragraph short - hiring managers look for clear, direct answers about your lab capabilities.

As a Biology Laboratory Assistant, your resume should highlight precision, technical skills, and attention to detail. Employers look for clear evidence of lab experience and specific techniques you’ve mastered. A single typo or vague statement can make a strong candidate seem unqualified. Focus on what matters most: your hands-on lab work, relevant coursework, and the tools you’ve used.

Creating a strong resume as a Biology Laboratory Assistant means balancing lab skills, technical knowledge, and real-world experience. This guide answers common questions and offers practical tips to help your resume stand out.