Assistant Researcher

Position Overview

The Mack lab (ww.katyamack.com) is seeking a self-motivated and detail-oriented biologist to work as an assistant researcher to support our research in evolutionary genomics/genetics. The Mack is within the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Kansas. Our research involves diverse systems but focuses on house mice to address fundamental questions in genetics and evolutionary biology. Our work seeks to understand the genetics of adaptation and speciation, with a focus on the role of gene regulation in evolutionary processes.

Job responsibilities will include (1) management of mice in our mouse colony, (2) technical research support in the lab, e.g., independent execution of experiments or assisting other team members in experiments, (2) general lab support, such as ordering and maintaining supplies, (3) contributing to preparation of research output, such as assisting with figure creation, data analysis, and written output.

The ideal candidate will have experience working in a research laboratory setting, be adept at problem solving, and have a bachelor's degree in Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field OR high school diploma/GED and four years related experience. Experience with rodents/mice is a plus but not required. The successful candidate will receive training in general research administration, mouse biology, and genetics, as relevant to the position. This position is especially well suited for individuals interested in pursuing graduate training in genetics, evolutionary biology, or related fields. This is a limited term, one-year position, with the possibility of renewal.

Job Description

70% - Provide research support in the lab; this will involve managing mouse breeding and execution of independent experiments and/or assisting team members with their experiments. Take clear and detailed notes on all research activities using the team's electronic lab notebook or a physical notebook.

15% - Manage general lab operations and provide general logistical support. Receive and unpack deliveries of supplies; monitor stocks of communal reagents and supplies; communicate to the PI when supplies need to be ordered. Maintain stocks of commonly used buffers, reagents, and supplies.

15% - Support and/or contribute to the preparation of written research outputs, including progress reports to funding agencies as well as manuscripts for publication. This may include data analysis, creation of publication-quality tables and figures, writing, proofreading, and editing.

Required Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree in Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field OR high school diploma/GED and four years related experience.
2. Previous experience in research settings, as evidenced by application materials
3. Outstanding attention to detail, as evidenced by application materials.
4. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and administrative skills, as evidenced by application materials and interview.
5. Excellent written communication skills, as evidenced in application materials and interview.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Demonstrated experience with molecular biology methods (PCR, nucleic acid extraction, gel electrophoresis, RNA extraction, library preparation, etc.).
2. An interest in genomics and evolutionary biology.

Contact Information to Applicants

Katya Mack, katya.mack@ku.edu

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete application consists of:

• cover letter
• CV
• contact information for 3 references

Application review begins Monday, April 27 and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Advertised Salary Range
$41,800 to $46,000

Application Review Begins
27-Apr-2026

Anticipated Start Date
25-May-2026

Primary Campus
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

FTE
1.0

Reg/Temp
Regular

FLSA Status
Nonexempt

Employee Class
U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Work Location Assignment
On-Site