"Research Assistant"

Job Description

The Research Assistant will conduct experiments in the following two projects.

(1) Cell and Developmental Biology: Identifying how a protein of interest contributes to cellular functions and development, using sea urchin embryonic cells and human cancer cells.
(2) Evolutionary Developmental Biology: Discovering how molecular evolution alters the developmental program and contributes to species diversity, using multiple echinoderm embryos.

Both projects require skills in general molecular biology, cell biology, embryology or live imaging such as general microscopy, microinjection, embryo handling, and confocal imaging. Any necessary training for the above experiments will be provided.

This is a fixed term position with a current end date of one year after the date of hire, which may be extended based upon available funding.

Job Qualifications

Education and Experience (Grade 7)

• Required: Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Undergraduate research experience with previous experience working in a laboratory setting; a completed and good-quality honorary thesis preferred.
• Relevant coursework and basic knowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology, and Developmental Biology.
• Prior experience demonstrating precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples is strongly desired.
• Experience in general microscopy preferred.
• Experience in confocal live imaging and microinjection is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with the following software for data analysis, construction of images and movies and data presentation is highly preferred: FIJI, Image J, R, MatLab, MecaGen, Linux, Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, PowerPoint
• Good record and sample-keeping practice.

Education and Experience (Grade 8)

• Required: Bachelor degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics or related field and 1-2 years' experience
• Or, equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Relevant coursework and basic knowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology and Biochemistry.
• Experience in general microscopy preferred.
• Experience in confocal live imaging and microinjection is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with the following software for data analysis, construction of images and movies and data presentation is highly preferred: FIJI, Image J, R, MatLab, MecaGen, Linux, Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, PowerPoint
• Prior experience demonstrating precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples is required.
• Good record and sample-keeping practice.

Job Competencies

• Excellent written and communication skills
• Ability to be observant and self-motivated
• Ability to think critically and problem-solve
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with co-workers
• Great attention to detail for every experiment with logical reasons
• Accurate sample/data labeling, organization, and storage
• Ability to complete accurate records and follow detailed instructions
• Proactive communications with the PI and senior lab members
• Good work ethic with honesty and accuracy
• Ability to report any questions and problems in a timely-fashioned manner

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION CHECK REQUIRED.

Note: This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship from Brown University

Additional Details

• Department: Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry
• Grade: Grade 7
• Worker Type: Employee (Fixed Term)
• Time Type: Full time
• Scheduled Weekly Hours: 37.5
• Position Work Location: Onsite
• Posted: 28-Oct-25
• Location: Providence, Rhode Island
• Categories: Research - Laboratory/Non-Laboratory, Staff/Administrative

Submission Guidelines: Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.