Research Assistant

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Auburn University is seeking a research assistant for a 1-year limited-term position. Employment may extend to four years depending on funding. The role supports researchers in planning and executing experiments, data collection, and preparing results for publication.

Responsibilities include developing project plans, conducting routine experiments, managing materials, analyzing data, and mentoring students. Preferred experience in molecular labs and DNA/RNA techniques.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in content-specific area of research.
• Level III requires Bachelor's Degree in content-specific area and 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
• Level IV requires Bachelor's Degree in content-specific area and 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
• Substitutions allowed for experience: education can substitute for experience at a rate of one year of education per year of required experience.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the development of project proposals, plans and protocols.
• Conducts routine or fundamental experiments, investigations and/or studies related to programs and projects in pursuit of new knowledge, techniques and concepts.
• Assists with logistical considerations to include equipment, materials, and labor needs.
• Collects data/samples related to others' research and in routine cases.
• Records, compiles, processes and analyzes data/samples.
• Documents results and observations in writing as well as presenting results to others.
• May assist in the preparation of research results for publication or presentation at conferences to include assisting in literature reviews and assisting in the writing of results and discussions.
• May instruct students and/or supervise others' research in area of expertise.

Skills

Molecular lab experience

DNA/RNA extractions

PCR

Sequencing workflows

Quantitative PCR (qPCR)

eDNA and fish health experience

Education

Bachelor's Degree in content specific area of research

Tools

Gel electrophoresis

DNA sequencing workflows

Metabarcoding

qPCR instruments

Job description

Overview

This is a 1-year limited-term position. Continued employment is contingent upon the availability of funding up to 4 years.

Assists researchers in planning, maintaining or completing research programs and/or projects involved in the discovery of new knowledge, techniques, and concepts which require fundamental scientific/research knowledge, skills and abilities following relevant policies, procedures, regulations and laws.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the development of project proposals, plans and protocols.
• Conducts routine or fundamental experiments, investigations and/or studies related to programs and projects in pursuit of new knowledge, techniques and concepts.
• Assists with logistical considerations to include equipment, materials, and labor needs.
• Collects data/samples related to others' research and in routine cases.
• Records, compiles, processes and analyzes data/samples.
• Documents results and observations in writing as well as presenting results to others.
• May assist in the preparation of research results for publication or presentation at conferences to include assisting in literature reviews and assisting in the writing of results and discussions.
• May instruct students and/or supervise others' research in area of expertise.

Qualifications

Level III:

• Bachelor's Degree in content specific area of research and 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols.

Level IV:

• Bachelor's Degree in content specific area of research and 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols.

Preferred experience:

• Molecular lab experience, such as DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, genetics/genomics experience, quantitative PCR (qPCR) and metabarcoding, eDNA and fish health experience.

SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED FOR EXPERIENCE: Yes, When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Contract Type

Limited Term

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone:Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.

Posted Date

10/28/2026