Research Assistant - Pathology & Immunology

Washington University in St. Louis; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 23,556 - 40,074; Full time

Job summary

Washington University in St. Louis seeks a Research Assistant for the Persaud lab in the Department of Pathology & Immunology.

The role supports preclinical studies on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and autologous gene therapies, with emphasis on non-malignant disorders. You will work directly with the PI and lab members to manage the lab, perform experiments (cell culture, flow cytometry, gene editing), analyze data, and help develop new projects while adhering to safety and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least 2 years of laboratory operations experience.
• Experience with mouse handling and procedures desirable.
• Experience with data analysis and interpretation desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research experiments and assays, including cell culture, flow cytometry, and mouse transplant models.
• Evaluate results, report findings to staff.
• Coordinate tissue cultures, reagents, and probe tests.
• Assist with lab maintenance and supply orders.
• Perform literature research on specified topics.
• Ensure safety procedures and maintain documentation.

Skills

Communication skills

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Flow cytometry

CRISPR-Cas9

Job description

Position Summary

The Persaud lab in the Department of Pathology & Immunology at WashU Medicine has an opening for a Research Assistant. Established in 2025, the lab conducts preclinical studies into optimizing the safety and efficacy of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for hematologic diseases, with emphasis on definitive therapies for non‑malignant disorders. Using both fully murine and humanized mouse models, the lab seeks to integrate minimally toxic, antibody‑based transplant conditioning with novel stem cell mobilization regimens to optimize autologous gene therapies for sickle cell disease. The successful candidate will work directly with the PI and other lab members to manage the laboratory and assist in the development of new and existing research projects in these exciting areas.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct research experiments and assays, including cell culture, molecular biology (gene editing), antibody production and engineering, flow cytometry, mouse hematopoietic stem cell transplant models, and in vivo stem cell mobilization.
• Evaluate research results, report findings, and discuss project outcomes with staff.
• Perform data entry and maintain research data files.
• Coordinate tissue cultures, reagents, and probe tests.
• Comply with safety procedures and maintain required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Coordinate research projects with other institutions and investigators.
• Participate in hypothesis development and experimental design.
• Assist with general supply/equipment orders, lab maintenance, and cleaning.
• Conduct literature research on specified topics.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

• Work in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Physically able to wear protective equipment and provide standard care to research animals.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and experience may substitute for minimum education.
• No specific certification or professional license is required.
• Laboratory Operations experience of at least 2 years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mouse handling and procedures.
• Experience in stem cell biology, hematology, and/or immunology.
• Experience with flow cytometry and CRISPR‑Cas9 gene editing.
• Strong written and verbal communication and organizational skills.
• Experience with data analysis and interpretation.

Driver's License

A driver's license is not required for this position.

Grade & Salary

Grade: R07‑H
Salary Range: $17.10 – $29.09 per hour (determinable by qualifications and performance)

Pre‑Employment Screening

All external candidates will be required to submit to pre‑employment screening, including a criminal background check, drug screening, employment/education verification, physical examination, and necessary vaccinations or registry checks.

Benefits Statement

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance with priority appointments and lower copays.
• Free Metro transit U‑Pass for eligible employees.
• 403(b) retirement savings plan with a starting match of 7%.
• Wellness challenges, health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs, and employee assistance.
• 4 weeks of caregiver leave for new children; family care resources and adult care support.
• Tuition coverage up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years.

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to equal employment opportunity. The University’s policy provides equal opportunity and access to all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.