Research Associate

Rutgers University; New Brunswick (NJ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 58,000; Part time

Job summary

Rutgers University-New Brunswick is seeking a part-time Research Associate in the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. The role involves coordinating NIH-funded projects and contributing to cross-disciplinary research on botanical extracts, retinoid pathways, and metabolism.

Responsibilities include protocol development, training student researchers, and supporting laboratory operations and compliance. The position is on-site with up to 19.5 hours per week in New Brunswick, NJ.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or closely related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of relevant hands-on research experience.
• Demonstrated advanced expertise in in vitro molecular characterization and mammalian cell interactions with botanical extracts and retinoid-driven pathways.

Responsibilities

• Assist in coordinating NIH-funded projects across multiple studies.
• Support implementation and refinement of experimental protocols and project coordination.
• Provide guidance and training to student researchers and ensure laboratory operations and compliance.

Skills

In vitro biology

Project management

Communication & computer literacy

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or a closely related scientific field

Tools

Laboratory software

Job description

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national research university and the State of New Jersey’s preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. As one of the largest employers in the State of New Jersey, Rutgers University is committed not only to the students and the State that we serve, but also to the faculty and staff who work on our campuses.

For two consecutive years, Rutgers is ranked on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Large Employers. Rutgers holds #64 of 500 employers and is the #1 New Jersey employer on the publication’s 2023 list. Rutgers’ commitment to its employees includes maintaining and fostering a safe, diverse, and respectful workplace environment, creating employment opportunities for our nation’s military veterans, and ensuring accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities.

Posting Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a part‑time Research Associate for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.

Among the key duties of the position are the following:

• Assists in coordinating research activities across multiple NIH -funded projects..
• Drives unique, cross-disciplinary research expertise combining botanical extracts, natural products, and human health research with advanced retinoid investigations of whole-body metabolism and impact global chronic diseases.
• Contributes to the implementation and refinement of experimental protocols and support project coordination efforts.
• Provides guidance and training to student researchers while supporting laboratory operations and compliance requirements.

FLSA

FLSA Nonexempt

Salary Details

Salary Details $40 - $42 per hour

Offer Information

The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status

Position Status Part Time

Working Hours

Working Hours Up to 19.5 hours per week

Daily Work Shift

Daily Work Shift Day

Work Arrangement

This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Payroll Designation

Payroll Designation PeopleSoft

Terms of Appointment

Terms of Appointment Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or a closely related scientific field and a minimum of three (3) years of relevant hands-on research experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated advanced expertise in in vitro molecular characterization—including cell morphology, gene expression analysis, and biological outcomes—specifically focusing on mammalian cell interactions with botanical extracts and retinoid-driven metabolic pathways.
• Proven ability to independently navigate, manage, and contribute to multiple cross-disciplinary research projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional communication skills (written and verbal), strong organizational capabilities, and high-level computer literacy (including data analysis and laboratory software).

Preferred Qualifications

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Posting Open Date

10/20/2026

Posting Close Date

10/28/2026

Open Until Filled

No

Special Instructions to Applicants

Regional Campus

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Location

Cook (RU-New Brunswick)

City New Brunswick

State NJ

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or a closely related scientific field and a minimum of three (3) years of relevant hands‑on research experience?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Documents

• Resume/CV

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• List of Professional References (contact Info)

Pre-employment Screenings All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings. Immunization Requirements Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals , if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

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