Research Assistant II

Michigan State University; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University’s Campbell lab investigates autism spectrum disorder using human cerebral organoids to model early brain development. The team performs extensive RNA sequencing on organoids and validates bioinformatics pipelines, guiding potential therapeutics.

The role requires a four-year degree in a related science, 3–5 years of lab leadership, and expertise in RNA extractions and NGS analyses. Limited-term, on-site position within the lab.

Qualifications

• The position requires a four-year college degree in a related science field.
• 3–5 years of progressively responsible lab operations experience.
• Expertise in RNA extractions, NGS data generation and analysis, and pipeline validation.
• May require licensing or certification in the field.

Responsibilities

• Oversee research projects and laboratory operations.
• Design and implement experiments in ASD-related organoid research.
• Coordinate data generation and bioinformatics analyses using standard pipelines.

Skills

RNA extractions

NGS data generation

Bioinformatics

Research project oversight

Laboratory operations

Analytical techniques

Experimental design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Data Science

Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology

Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience

Tools

NGS instruments

RNA extraction kits

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