Position Details
Title: Research Associate/Lab Manager Biology; Gandara Lab
Appointment Status: Non-Tenure Track
Department: IU Bloomington Biology
Location: Bloomington
Position Summary
The department of Biology is a large, unified department with strong undergraduate degrees, nationally-ranked graduate programs, and world-class research spanning the breadth of biological questions and experimental systems — from ecosystems to microbiology and developmental biology, from evolution to cell biology, from molecular biology to systems biology, bioinformatics, and genomics. It is always an exciting time for Biology — enormous advances in global genome analysis coupled with unprecedented developments in interdisciplinary research have made the 21st century the Century of Biology. For more information about the department, you can find it here: About: Department of Biology: Indiana University Bloomington.
Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.
The Gandara Lab in the Department of Biology at Indiana University Bloomington is seeking a Research Associate/Lab Manager.
About the lab
Our lab takes an integrative physiology approach to investigate the genetic basis, molecular mechanisms, and physiological processes that allow animals to respond to chemical stress. Working with Drosophila flies and other insects, we use a broad range of high-throughput phenotyping techniques to determine the full impact of chemical stressors (agrochemicals, pollutants, etc.) on these animals. By combining these methods with genetic and pharmacological manipulations, we aim to understand the mechanisms underlying the chemical stress response and how they interact with the rest of the animal’s physiology.
About the role
We are looking for a motivated, curious person who wants to work in a highly collaborative and supportive research environment. In this role, you will assist lab members with research protocols and general lab tasks, contribute to discussions, and offer feedback and suggestions during lab meetings and journal clubs.
Core duties
- Manage general lab operations
- Learn, perform, and teach other lab members our key research protocols: molecular biology techniques, fluorescence microscopy (wide-field, confocal, etc.), behavioral assays, fly genetics, and data analysis in R
- Collect data following established protocols
- Oversee research compliance, lab safety, permits, and associated documentation
Other responsibilities
- Test lab equipment and establish SOPs
- Write research reports and present findings at lab meetings
- Troubleshoot technical problems in the lab
Basic Qualifications
Required education and experience
Bachelor’s degree and two years of research experience, OR a Master’s degree that includes research experience
Required skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Efficient time management
- Professionalism
- Organization and attention to detail
- Strong written and oral communication
- Ability to anticipate and solve problems
- Dependability and initiative
Preferred skills
- Hands-on research experience with flies
- Proficiency in one or more molecular biology or imaging techniques
- Proficiency in R or Python
Department Contact for Questions
How to apply
Please submit (1) a cover letter describing your research and educational background, career goals, interest in this position, and the date you are available to start; (2) a CV or résumé; and (3) names and contact information for two references. Apply at: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/34937. Questions about the position can be directed to Lautaro Gandara (lgandara@iu.edu).
Timing and compensation
Review of applications will begin November 23 and continue until the position is filled. The ideal start date is January 4, 2027. The initial appointment is for one year, with reappointment contingent on satisfactory performance. Salary is commensurate with experience, and full benefits are included. The best consideration date is 11/23.
For Best Consideration Date: 11/23/2027
Posting Number: IU-101768-2026
