Research Assistant - Biological Sciences
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant - Biological Sciences at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Conduct molecular biology experiments including DNA cloning, plasmid preparation, PCR, bacterial transformation, and strain maintenance.
Perform mammalian cell culture, transfection, microscopy sample preparation, and other cell biology and biochemical techniques in support of ongoing research projects.
Generate, analyze, document, and organize experimental data to support manuscripts, grant applications, and laboratory presentations.
Assist with multiple research projects by performing experiments independently and collaborating with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and the principal investigator.
Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including inventory management, ordering supplies, maintaining laboratory records, and ensuring adequate stock of reagents and consumables.
Maintain laboratory equipment, coordinate routine maintenance and repairs, and ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and standard operating procedures.
Train and supervise undergraduate researchers in laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and proper documentation of experimental work.
Coordinate laboratory schedules, organize shared equipment usage, and assist with onboarding new laboratory personnel.
Prepare reagents, maintain cell lines and laboratory stocks, and perform general laboratory organization and housekeeping.
Participate in laboratory meetings and contribute to experimental planning, troubleshooting, and protocol optimization
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a closely related field.
At least one year of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academic or biotechnology setting (undergraduate research experience may be considered).
Experience with common molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, bacterial culture, plasmid preparation, and gel electrophoresis.
Experience with mammalian cell culture and basic cell biology techniques.
Experience with biochemical methods such as protein extraction, Western blotting, and immunodetection.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic record-keeping.
Preferred qualifications:
Experience with laboratory management, including inventory control, ordering, equipment maintenance, and laboratory organization. Experience training or mentoring undergraduate students or other laboratory personnel. Experience with fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, or quantitative image analysis. Experience with yeast genetics, CRISPR/Cas9, protein purification, lipid biology, or other techniques relevant to membrane biology research. Familiarity with statistical analysis and scientific data visualization software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, ImageJ/Fiji, R, or Python). Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experimental protocols and contribute to the design and execution of independent research projects.
School/College/Division:
H12 - College of Liberal Arts & Science
Primary department:
H1204 - Biological Sciences
Employment type:
- Regular Employee
- Job type: Full Time
- Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
- Compensation type: Annual Salary
- Salary minimum: $55,000
- Salary hire maximum: $57,000
Job openings:
- Number of openings: 1
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
