Research Assistant II

Michigan State University College of Engineering; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University College of Engineering’s Campbell lab is recruiting for a research position focusing on autism spectrum disorder using human cerebral organoids. The role involves leading RNA extraction, NGS data generation and analysis, and validating bioinformatics pipelines within a funded one-year project.

The candidate will apply advanced laboratory techniques, oversee experiments, and manage equipment and data across the project, contributing to mechanistic insights and potential

Qualifications

• Four-year degree in Data Science, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience overseeing research projects and managing lab operations.
• Expertise in RNA extractions, NGS data generation/analysis, and validating NGS pipelines.

Skills

RNA extractions

NGS data analysis

Bioinformatics pipelines

Lab management

Experiment design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

NGS analysis software

Bioinformatics pipelines

Job description

Position Summary

The Campbell lab studies the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The lab takes three distinct approaches, all of which use human cerebral organoids as a human model of early brain development. The first approach is to understand how genes with high confidence ASD mutations alter neurodevelopment. The second approach is to determine how common genetic variants with genome-wide significant association with ASD alter neurodevelopment. The third approach is to expose human cerebral organoids – with a variety of genetic backgrounds – to environmental factors that are associated with ASD risk. Collectively, these approaches will identify biochemical networks that can be targeted for therapeutics. The funded project involves extensive next generation sequencing (NGS) of RNA extracted from human cerebral organoids.

Minimum Requirements

The job requires: knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Data Science, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or related science field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment. The successful candidate must also have documented expertise in RNA extractions, NGS data generation and analysis, and validation of NGS bioinformatics pipelines.

Desired Qualifications

Candidates with a Master's degree in Data Science, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a related science field are preferred.

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

• Cover Letter
• CV

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

http://phd.msu.edu

Summary of Health Risks

Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue and other body fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions.

The Bidding Eligibility ends on 09/15/2026 at 11:55 PM