Research Assistant 25-059 at Old Dominion University Research Foundation Norfolk, VA

Old Dominion University Research Foundation; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art techniques

Job summary

Old Dominion University Research Foundation in Norfolk, Virginia is looking for a motivated Research Assistant to contribute to molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging and female reproductive biology. Responsibilities include conducting molecular biology experiments, managing lab records, and ensuring compliance with protocols. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and strong organizational skills. This position offers excellent training for those interested in graduate or medical education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• Prior laboratory research experience preferred but not required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail necessary.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments including RNA isolation and sequencing.
• Assist with ovarian follicle cultures and histological analyses.
• Manage laboratory records and sample organization.
• Collaborate with team members on experiments.
• Ensure compliance with animal and biosafety protocols.

Skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, Molecular/Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field

Job description

Research Assistant – Brachova-Alvarez Laboratory

We are seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Research Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team investigating the molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging and female reproductive biology. Our research integrates cutting‑edge molecular, cellular, and computational approaches to understand how RNA processing, mitochondrial function, and ovarian cell composition contribute to reproductive lifespan and fertility.

Position Overview

• Ovarian follicle development during the estrous phases and during aging.
• Alternative splicing and RNA isoform regulation in oocytes and granulosa cells.
• Mitochondrial complex I dysfunction and its impact on ovarian function.
• Application of advanced multi‑omics approaches, including long‑read direct RNA sequencing, single‑cell RNA‑seq, and spatial transcriptomics.

Responsibilities

• Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments (RNA isolation, PCR, sequencing library preparation, tissue culture, and mouse ovary electroporation).
• Assist with ovarian follicle cultures and histological analyses.
• Manage laboratory records, data entry, and sample organization.
• Collaborate with graduate students, postdocs, and faculty to execute experiments.
• Maintain compliance with institutional protocols for animal and biosafety research.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, Molecular/Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field (required).
• Prior laboratory research experience (preferred, but not required).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Opportunities

This position provides excellent training for candidates interested in pursuing graduate or medical education. Research Assistants in our lab gain hands‑on experience with state‑of‑the‑art genomics, transcriptomics, and reproductive biology techniques, and are encouraged to participate in publications and presentations.

The organization is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer (AA/EOE/M/F/Disability/VETS/Drug‑Free Workplace). We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all individuals in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions — including recruitment, hiring, training, compensation, and promotion — are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. 
Affirmative action efforts are conducted consistent with applicable laws to promote equal opportunity in employment and advancement.