"Research Assistant"

Job Summary

The research assistant will support a biophysical chemistry research laboratory focused on understanding the cellular functions involving proteins and lipids and relevant development of biomaterials. The position will assist with experimental preparation, spectroscopic measurements, data analysis, and routine laboratory operations. The research assistant will help maintain laboratory compliance, manage research materials, and support day-to-day research activities. The position will also assist with supervising and training undergraduate researchers working for pay or course credit. Prior laboratory experience is preferred, particularly in chemistry, biochemistry, or biophysics, though training will be provided. Candidates with experience in spectroscopy, data analysis, or computations will be strongly considered.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Research Support and Experimental Work

Assists with preparation and execution of experiments and/or computations involving lipids, proteins, and biomolecule-related systems. Performs routine data measurements and supports data collection. Prepares samples, reagents, and buffers following established protocols.

Data Analysis and Documentation

Assists with processing, organizing, and analyzing research data. Maintains accurate laboratory records, experimental logs, and data files. Contributes to preparation of figures, reports, and summaries for research meetings and publications.

Laboratory Operations and Safety

Supports day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment setup, calibration, and basic maintenance. Manages laboratory supplies, inventory, and ordering of consumables. Ensures compliance with laboratory safety procedures and institutional regulations.

Training and Collaboration

Assists in training and mentoring undergraduate researchers in basic laboratory techniques and best practices. Collaborates with faculty, students, and research staff on ongoing projects. Participates in group meetings and contributes to a collaborative research environment.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, cell biology, social sciences, natural sciences, life, health care, or materials science directly related to the research area to which the position is assigned and experience in a research or clinical setting.

OR

Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, cell biology, social sciences, natural sciences, life, health care, or materials science directly related to the research area to which the position is assigned and a minimum of three years' experience in a research or clinical area.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior laboratory or research experience, particularly in chemistry, physical chemistry, biophysics, or related fields. Experience with IR spectroscopy, transient spectroscopy or computational chemistry is highly desirable. Familiarity with protein/lipid sample preparation is also preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

ABILITIES

The position will make independent decisions related to routine laboratory tasks, including prioritizing daily experimental activities, preparing samples according to established protocols, and ensuring data are accurately recorded and stored. The research assistant will independently identify and address minor equipment or procedural issues and determine when to escalate concerns to the supervisor. These decisions directly impact data quality, laboratory efficiency, and adherence to safety and research standards.

KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge of infrared spectroscopy, transient spectroscopy, protein structure and lipid functions.

SKILLS

Excellent written and verbal communications skills.

Shift/Salary/Benefits

Shift: Days/M-F

Pay Band: B5

Salary Range: $17.88/hourly - $19.23/hourly

Salary to be commensurate with qualifications of the selected candidate within the established range (generally minimum-midpoint) of the position.

Recruitment Period: 2/26/26 - Until Filled

Augusta University offers a variety of benefits to full-time benefits-eligible employees and some of our half-time (or more) employees. Benefits that may be elected could include health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, Teachers Retirement System (or Optional Retirement Plan), as well as earned vacation time, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays. Also, our full-time employees who have been employed with us successfully for more than 6 months can be considered for the Tuition Assistance Program.

Conditions of Employment

All selected candidates are required to successfully pass a Background Check review prior to starting with Augusta University. If applicable for the specific position based on the duties: the candidate will also need to have a credit check completed for Positions of Trust and or approved departmental Purchase Card usage. Motor vehicle reports are required for positions that are required to drive an Augusta University vehicle. For Faculty Hires: Final candidates will be required to provide proof of completed academic degree(s) as well as post-secondary coursework in the form of original transcript(s). Those candidates trained by a foreign institution will also be required to provide an educational/credential evaluation. All employees are responsible for ensuring the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of sensitive [patient, student, employee, financial, business, etc.] information by exercising sound judgment and adhering to cybersecurity and privacy policies during their employment and beyond.

How To Apply

Consider applying with us today! Applicants are encouraged to tailor their resumes to the position of interest by clearly highlighting relevant work experience and skills gained from previous employment. Resumes should reflect how your background aligns with the qualifications and responsibilities of the role. https://www.augusta.edu/hr/jobs/ Select University Faculty & Staff > External Applicants if you are a candidate from outside the university. Select University Faculty & Staff > Internal Applicants if you are a current university employee. If you need further assistance, please contact us at 706-721-9365. To apply, visit https://careers.hprod.onehcm.usg.edu/psp/careers/CAREERS/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=12000&JobOpeningId=295337&PostingSeq=1