Senior Research Assistant

Brown University; Rhode Island; On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University seeks a Senior Research Assistant to support the RNA Core Facility operations in the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry. The role involves maintaining cell lines, performing transfections, PCR, western blotting, DNA/RNA/protein extraction & purification, and library construction.

The position requires careful data collection, record-keeping, and preparation of data for presentation to external research groups.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 3–5 years of lab experience.
• Competent in basic molecular biology techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, Western blotting).
• Experience growing and maintaining mammalian cell cultures.

Responsibilities

• Support operations of the RNA Core Facility.
• Prepare samples and libraries; run sequencing and genomic workflows.
• Order and prepare reagents and supplies for Core operations.
• Record, interpret, and present experimental data to external groups.
• Write protocols and operating procedures.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Supervise others

Experimental design/evaluation

Communication

Collaboration with diverse groups

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

PCR

Electrophoresis

Western blotting

Mammalian cell culture

Nucleic acid extraction

Job description

Job Description:The Senior Research Assistant will support all operations of the RNA Core Facility including, maintaining cell lines, performing transfections, PCR, western blotting, and DNA/RNA/protein extraction & purification. The Senior Research Assistant will be responsible for the preparation of samples, library construction, and the running of instrumentation for sequencing and other genomic workflows under the direction of the RNA Core Facility Manager. In addition, the Senior Research Assistant will be responsible for the ordering and preparation of necessary laboratory reagents and supplies to support Core operations. The position will require careful collection, recording, and interpretation of experimental data and preparation of collected data for presentation to outside research groups. The position will require the ability to keep detailed records of activities, and will be required to write protocols and operating procedures.The COBRE: Center for RNA Biology in Health and Disease primary goal is to create a transformative organizing hub for RNA research in Rhode Island. The RNA Core Facility works to support RNA biology research at Brown University and the wider Rhode Island community by providing specialized expertise and training. The RNA Core Facility is developing analytical capabilities in long-read sequencing, RNA immunoprecipitation, massively parallel reporter assays (MRPAs), and RNA structural analysis. We work with early career RNA researchers to help them establish independent NIH-funding investigators, more established researchers who are seeking to initiate RNA-focus projects and act to foster interdisciplinary collaboration between core services and RNA biology research labs.This is a fixed term position with a current end date of one year from the date of hire which may be extended based upon available funding.JOB QUALIFICATIONSEducation and Experience:Required: Bachelor's degree with 3-5 years’ laboratory experience, or equivalent combination of education and experienceKnowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology and Biochemistry required. Candidate should be competent in basic molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, electrophoresis and western blotting, and in growing and maintaining mammalian cell cultures.Preferred: Specific experience in RNA/DNA extraction, purification and analysis, nanopore sequencing, biochemistry, or molecular RNA biology.Job Competencies:Strong organizational skills, technical/scientific and time management skillsAbility to supervise othersAbility to design, conduct and evaluate experiments independentlyKnowledge of molecular biology techniquesAbility to communicate clearly and professionally with co-workersAbility to interact and collaborate with diverse research groups and other core facilitiesCRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND EDUCATION VERIFICATION REQUIRED.Benefits of Working at Brown:Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.Recruiting Start Date:2026-09-16Job Posting Title:Senior Research AssistantDepartment:Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and BiochemistryGrade:Grade 9Worker Type:EmployeeWorker Sub-Type:Fixed Term (Fixed Term)Time Type:Full timeScheduled Weekly Hours:37.5Position Work Location:OnsiteSubmission Guidelines:The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.Still Have Questions?If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail] is an E-Verify Employer.EEO Statement:Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.