Pharm Sciences Research Asst (Student Position)

Ferris State University College of Business; Big Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 16,000 - 23,000; Part time

Job summary

Ferris State University | College of Pharmacy seeks a Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Assistant (Student Position) in Big Rapids, MI to contribute to NIH-funded antibiotic drug discovery. The role provides hands-on laboratory experience under Dr.

Nybo’s team, linking coursework to real-world research. Ideal candidates are from Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Chemistry or related fields; duties include assisting with experiments, preparing materials, collecting and analyzing data, and

Qualifications

• Foundational understanding of organic chemistry or microbiology.
• Ability to follow detailed research protocols and complete assignments with guidance.
• Coursework, lab experience, or technical skills relevant to antibiotic drug discovery.

Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, and maintain accurate research data and records.
• Use databases and spreadsheets to manage, summarize, and analyze data.
• Discuss experimental results with the research team and interpret findings.

Skills

Organic chemistry

Microbiology

Laboratory skills

Data analysis

Tools

Spreadsheet software

Database software

Job description

Job no: 498201

Work type: Student Employment - General

Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307

Categories: Student Employment - General

Position Title: Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Assistant (Student Position) Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307 Department: College of Pharmacy

Advertised Salary: $14.49

Summary of Position: Student Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Assistant — NIH-Funded Antibiotic Drug Discovery

Ferris State University | College of Pharmacy

Do you enjoy exploring scientific questions related to your future career? Join Dr. Eric Nybo’s laboratory and gain hands‑on research experience through a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded antibiotic drug discovery project. This position offers an opportunity to connect classroom learning with laboratory research aimed at developing new antibiotics.

Students in Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), Biotechnology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Forensic Biology, and Industrial Chemistry are especially encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates have an interest in organic chemistry, microbiology, drug discovery, and problem‑solving.

Responsibilities may include assisting with laboratory experiments, preparing research materials, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining accurate laboratory records, and discussing experimental results with the research team. Activities may involve microbiology, molecular biology, and natural products chemistry.

Applicants should be curious, dependable, attentive to detail, and willing to learn new techniques. Relevant coursework or laboratory experience is helpful. Students will have opportunities to develop practical laboratory skills, scientific reasoning, teamwork, and communication skills relevant to their future careers.

Pay: Starting at $14.49, increased for professional‑level students

Hours: 5 - 10 hours per week

Position Requirements

• Demonstrate a foundational understanding of organic chemistry, microbiology, or related subjects relevant to antibiotic drug discovery.
• Be able to complete detailed research assignments, follow laboratory protocols, and solve problems with appropriate guidance.
• Possess relevant coursework, laboratory experience, or technical skills appropriate to the assigned research activities.
• If University driving is required, complete a motor vehicle report authorization form. Human Resources must review the report to determine eligibility to drive on behalf of the University.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, and maintain accurate research data and laboratory records.
• Use database and spreadsheet software to enter, manage, summarize, and analyze experimental data.
• Exercise sound judgment when collecting and evaluating data, identify inconsistencies, and consult the research supervisor when problems or questions arise.

Number of Positions Available: 6

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume/ Class Schedule

Job Close Date: Open until hired

EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affiliation/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University’s Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.

Advertised: 04 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: 12 Dec 2026 Eastern Standard Time