Becoming an Operator
This guide walks through the process of becoming a verified Litmus operator.
Who Can Be an Operator?
Operators are typically:
- Graduate students with lab access
- Research technicians
- Postdocs
- Lab managers at academic institutions or CROs
You need:
- Access to laboratory facilities (BSL-1 or BSL-2)
- Relevant training and expertise
- Permission from your PI/supervisor to do external work
Verification Process
Step 1: Apply
Contact operators@litmus.science with:
- Your name and institution
- Your role (student, technician, etc.)
- Brief description of your expertise
- Equipment you have access to
Step 2: Identity Verification
Standard identity verification using government-issued ID.
Step 3: Institutional Affiliation
Provide documentation of your lab membership:
- Student ID or employee badge
- Letter confirming lab access
- Link to your lab's website
Step 4: PI/Supervisor Approval
Your PI or supervisor must sign a form confirming:
- You're authorized to use lab facilities for external work
- Work will be done during approved hours (typically evenings/weekends)
- Your institution's policies allow this activity
Step 5: Competency Assessment
For each skill you claim, provide:
- Description of your experience
- Number of times you've performed the technique
- References (papers, protocols, or supervisor contact)
Verified Competencies
You'll be matched to jobs based on your verified skills:
| Category | Example Skills |
|---|---|
| Microbiology | Bacterial culture, MIC assays, growth curves |
| Cell Biology | Mammalian cell culture, viability assays |
| Molecular Biology | PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning |
| Biochemistry | Enzyme assays, protein purification |
| Analytical | HPLC, mass spec, spectroscopy |
Equipment Access
List the equipment you have access to:
- Biosafety cabinet (BSL level)
- Incubators (temperature range)
- Plate readers (capabilities)
- PCR machines
- Centrifuges
- Specialized equipment
Getting Paid
- Payment is released when the requester approves results
- Platform fee: 20% of job value
- Payments processed via Stripe (direct deposit)
- Typical payout: 3-5 business days after approval
Tips for Success
- Start with familiar templates — Don't claim custom protocols until you're comfortable
- Communicate proactively — Ask questions before starting, not after
- Document thoroughly — Photos and notes protect you in disputes
- Be realistic about timelines — Under-promise and over-deliver
- Maintain your reputation — Quality matters more than quantity
Questions?
Contact operators@litmus.science for questions about the verification process.