Research Assistant I - Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology

West Virginia University; Morgantown (WV); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in health sciences is seeking a Research Assistant I to support vital research in Physiology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology. This role involves conducting in vivo and in vitro experiments, assisting with animal surgeries, and managing laboratory supplies. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences and a passion for research. Join a collaborative team dedicated to making a lasting impact in the field of health sciences, while enjoying generous benefits that promote work-life balance and personal growth.

Benefits

13 paid holidays

15 annual leave days

18 sick days

Health insurance

401(a) retirement savings

Wellness programs

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences or equivalent experience required.
• 0-6 months of experience preferred in laboratory and animal research.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in vivo experiments including inhalation methods and animal surgeries.
• Collect biological samples and analyze data for research projects.

Skills

Laboratory Research

Animal Research

Critical Thinking

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Organization Skills

Time Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office

GraphPad Prism

Job description

Description

West Virginia University Health Science Center is currently accepting applications for a Research Assistant I for Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology.

About the Opportunity

This position will assist the principal investigator in conducting research in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology. This research involves inhalation toxicology as well as cell and molecular biology studies on laboratory animals and cultured cells.

We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• 15 annual leave (vacation) days per year
• 18 sick days per year
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits (this position is a benefits-eligible non-classified staff position)
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks
• Wellness programs

What you'll do:

• Perform in vivo experiments including particulate and gaseous exposures using pharyngeal/tracheal aspiration and inhalation methods.
• Assist principal investigator with animal surgeries.
• Collect and preserve biological samples (blood, lung lavage, tissues).
• Process, record, analyze, and interpret data.
• Prepare reports and organize information for the principal investigator.
• Conduct in vitro experiments such as cell and tissue culture, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, and western blots.
• Maintain laboratory animal colony and breeding records.
• Train graduate students and research personnel, sharing knowledge and guidance.
• Prepare reagents, media, and solutions for experiments.
• Ensure safety procedures for handling biohazards are followed and the lab complies with regulations.
• Manage laboratory supplies and advise on equipment purchases.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Assist with laboratory animal care and euthanasia as instructed.
• Sterilize glassware and dispose of waste properly.

Pay Grade: 15

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences or equivalent experience.
• 0-6 months of experience preferred.
• Preferred experience includes laboratory research, animal research, and use of software like Microsoft Office and GraphPad Prism.
• Ability to follow policies, keep accurate records, and demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with initiative and minimal supervision.

Requirements

Due to the nature of this job, Medical Monitoring may be required.

About WVU

West Virginia University is committed to community, growth, and impact. We value service, curiosity, respect, accountability, and appreciation. Join us to make a lasting impact. Visit wvu.edu to learn more.

WVU is an Equal Opportunity Employer, inviting all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.