Research Assistant I

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a motivated Research Assistant I to join their dynamic team in the College of Veterinary Medicine. This position offers the chance to support groundbreaking research in agricultural and veterinary sciences, including molecular biology and microbiology. As a Research Assistant, you will play a crucial role in laboratory management, assist in live-animal research, and contribute to the success of various research projects. If you are passionate about advancing scientific knowledge and have a strong background in laboratory techniques, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a collaborative environment where your contributions will make a significant impact in the field.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science or Biological Sciences required.
• 1-3 years of lab experience in molecular biology and safety techniques.

Responsibilities

• Support laboratory research activities and maintain accurate records.
• Manage equipment inventory and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Skills

Laboratory procedures

Molecular biology techniques

Data analysis

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor of Science in Animal Science or Biological Sciences

Master of Science in related field

Tools

PCR

ELISA

Statistical software

Job description

Position Summary

The College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University seeks a highly skilled and motivated Research Assistant I to support the research endeavors of AgBioResearch faculty within the college. These faculty conduct leading-edge research in agricultural and veterinary sciences, including molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, and large animal research.

Duties for this position will include:

1. (60%) Support to laboratory-based research activities: The incumbent Research Assistant will provide high-level technical support to the laboratory-based research activities of AgBioResearch-funded research faculty, including assisting in the design, execution, and troubleshooting of experiments and protocols; keeping detailed and accurate laboratory records, including protocols and databases; assisting with data entry and preliminary analysis of results; and training of students in laboratory techniques.

2. (20%) Equipment inventory management: The successful candidate will maintain the equipment inventory for the departments of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, and AgBio-funded faculty within the College. This position will liaise with MSU’s Capital Asset Management to ensure compliance of equipment inventory. Furthermore, this position will work with new and departing faculty to ensure adequate onboarding and offboarding of laboratory spaces and equipment, following Environmental Health and Safety regulations.

3. (10%) Support to live-animal research activities: The Research Assistant will support CVM AgBioResearch-funded faculty research activities involving large animal species, including assistance with animal handling and sample collection.

4. (10%) Laboratory management: The Research Assistant will support the management of the research laboratories of CVM AgBioResearch-funded faculty, including ordering supplies and materials, maintaining faculty laboratory facilities and equipment, and will serve as a point person for laboratory safety training and compliance monitoring across participating AgBioResearch faculty labs.

The successful candidate will work with administrators, faculty researchers and their teams, and other college staff. The Research Assistant supervisor will coordinate time dedication to the different AgBioResearch-funded faculty.

This is a three-year term position with a possible extension contingent upon the availability of funds.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The mission of the College is to be inclusive as we learn, discover, heal, and protect. As a College, we aim to identify, attract, and retain talented students, faculty, and staff reflective of the diversity of the populations in our state, the nation, and the world. Our academic, scholarly, and service roles, considered separately and collectively, form the foundation of an inclusive culture committed to respecting, nurturing, and advancing all individuals.

The College’s vision is to be the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service. Six goals, backed by specific strategies, guide our organization as we move forward. Read more at Goals and Strategy Champions | College of Veterinary Medicine at MSU to learn about the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s goals, strategies, and progress.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to what normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program such as a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science Biological Sciences (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology); one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed such as cell/tissue culture, molecular biology (e.g., PCR, DNA/RNA/protein extraction), ELISA, and/or bacteriology; experience with word processing, spreadsheet, database and/or basic statistical software; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A valid driver's license at the time of hire is required.

Desired Qualifications

Master of Science Area of Study: Animal Science, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a two-year research-oriented degree program such as a Master of Science degree; at least five years of related work experience in laboratory research techniques such as microscopy, flow cytometry, lipidomics/metabolomics; experience organizing and analyzing data using more advanced analysis techniques. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Attention to detail is critical, as well as the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, adhere to deadlines, maintain high ethical research standards, accept constructive criticism, and succeed in a team-oriented environment. Experience handling live animals.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials: The interested applicant should submit a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information for two references.

Special Instructions: Inquiries about the position can be made to the search committee chair, Dr. Angel Abuelo ([e-mail]).

Work Hours: This is a 40-hour per-week position, mostly during standard hours (8 AM- 5 PM). However, non-standard working shifts might be required on rare occasions to support ongoing projects.

Description of End Date: This is an off-dated position funded for three years from date of hire with extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website: https://cvm.msu.edu/lcs

Summary of Health Risks

• Works with animals and unfixed animal tissue.

Bidding eligibility ends April 22, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.