Research Technician (HR Title: Research Assistant)

Southern Methodist University Inc; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Methodist University Inc in Dallas, TX is seeking a Research Technician (HR Title: Research Assistant) to support and conduct molecular and quantitative behavioral experiments studying how environment shapes aggressive interactions in fruit flies. The role includes experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific collaboration.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree with at least 2 years of lab experience in molecular biology and neuroscience methods, plus strong

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (e.g. western blotting, gel electrophoresis, genetic crosses) and neuroscience approaches (optogenetics, connectomics, calcium imaging) required.
• Minimum 2 years of molecular biology lab experience.

Responsibilities

• Support collaborative research by maintaining fly stocks, setting up behavioral arenas, and performing standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis).
• Develop and execute an independent research project.
• Assist with lab management and organization.

Skills

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Communication

Analytical thinking

Organization

Drosophila melanogaster

Python

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Gel electrophoresis

PCR

Job description

Research Technician (HR Title: Research Assistant)

Southern Methodist University Inc Dallas , TX

3 DAYS AGO

Full Time

3 DAYS AGO Full Time Description

Hourly Range:
$21.12/hr ($41,184/yr)

About SMU: SMU's more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 90 countries to take advantage of the University's small classes, hands‑on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities - from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.

About the Position: The Schretter lab https://www.schretterlab.org/ studies the neurological basis behind social interactions using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. We are seeking an enthusiastic and scientifically curious researcher to support as well as conduct molecular and quantitative behavioral experiments aimed at understanding how the environment shapes aggressive interactions. We expect the hired lab member to participate in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific inquiry. This is a great opportunity to become a foundational member of a lab committed to mentorship and scientific collaboration.

Essential Functions:

• Research support - supporting the collaborative research environment by assisting in fly stock maintenance, setting up behavioral arenas, and performing standard molecular biology techniques (i.e. PCR and gel electrophoresis).
• Independent research - developing and executing an independent research project.
• Lab operations - assisting with lab management (i.e. maintaining order lists).

Qualifications

Education and Experience: Bachelor's is required.

Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (i.e. western blotting, gel electrophoresis, genetic crosses) and experimental approaches in neuroscience (i.e. optogenetics, connectomics, and calcium imaging) is required. Research experience with a minimum of 2 years of molecular biology lab experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills. Candidate must possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with demonstrated ability to systematically evaluate complex problems and devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning, and time management skills. Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) and computational experience is preferred. Basic coding capabilities (i.e. with Matlab and Python) are preferred.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Sit for long periods of time
• Exposure to marked changes in temperature/or humidity

Deadline to Apply: Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by April 3, 2026. Application deadline is June 1, 2026 August 1, 2026, September 14, 2026.

EEO Statement: SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.

Benefits: SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits. Location/Region: Dallas, Texas