"Undergraduate Research Assistant"

Position Overview

The Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, seeks an undergraduate assistant researcher with experience and/or interest in molecular virology, biochemistry, and antiviral research. The successful candidate will be engaged in projects investigating multiple aspects of the coronavirus macrodomain and its impact on viral replication and pathogenesis. The projects will involve performing several molecular techniques including but not limited to: reverse genetics, cloning, eukaryotic cell culture, transfections, virus-based assays, etc. Prior experience in the Fehr Lab is desired. The applicant should be motivated, organized, detail-oriented, work well with others, and be able to participate in many different lab activities.

The Fehr Lab studies the innate immune response to coronavirus infection, and how these viruses inhibit these responses. Specifically, we are interested in how the coronavirus macrodomain (Mac1) counters host-mediated ADP-ribosylation. For more information on the Fehr Lab please visit: https://molecularbiosciences.ku.edu/people/anthony-fehr or www.fehrlab.com.

Job Description

80% – Research Project Execution

• Engineer and characterize recombinant coronaviruses
• Apply techniques in reverse genetics, molecular cloning, biochemistry, and cell culture
• Conduct virological assays to analyze viral behavior and properties
• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results
• Follow safety and biosafety protocols in all lab activities

20% – General Laboratory Support

• Perform routine lab chores such as cleaning, organizing supplies, and maintaining equipment
• Assist with inventory management and ordering of lab materials
• Support overall lab operations to ensure a productive research environment

Required Qualifications

1. KU Undergraduate Student Majoring in Biology or Related Field, as indicated on application materials.

Position Requirements

During the semester term of the appointment, the student hourly must be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours. For summer periods the student hourly must: (1) have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester or (2) be pre-enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours or (3) be enrolled in summer session or (4) be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester. Student Hourlies may be undergraduate or graduate students. (Exceptions granted for GRA/GTA/GA appointments DO NOT apply to Student Hourly appointments).

Employment Conditions

(1) Student employees are not eligible for remote work arrangements unless an exception is approved by the unit leadership and HR.

(2) This is an hourly/non-exempt position. A student employee cannot hold an hourly/non-exempt position and a salaried/exempt graduate or undergraduate position (GRA/GTA/GA/RUA/RGA) concurrently.

Additional Candidate Instructions

In addition to the online application, the following documents are required to be considered for this position:

• Resume
• Cover Letter detailing your qualifications
• Two professional references

To ensure full consideration, please apply before the application deadline of September 24th, 2025.

Contact Information to Applicants

Anthony Fehr, arfehr@ku.edu

Advertised Salary Range

$12.00 - $13.00

Anticipated Start Date

Tuesday September 30, 2025