Research Assistant I

Position Summary

The College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University seeks a highly skilled and motivated Research Assistant I to manage the Abuelo Laboratory (www.abuelolab.com). The Research Assistant will aid the PI in planning and performing cattle health immunobiology research.

Duties for this position will include:

(70%) Support to laboratory-based research activities: The incumbent Research Assistant will provide high-level technical support to the laboratory-based research activities of the Abuelo lab, including assisting in the design, execution, and troubleshooting of experiments and protocols; keeping detailed and accurate laboratory records, including protocols and databases; assisting with data entry and preliminary analysis of results.

(20%) General laboratory management: The Research Assistant will support the management of the research laboratory, including calendaring, ordering, managing research budgets, writing (grants, manuscripts, and AUFs), and other general lab tasks such as ensuring adequate user laboratory safety training and compliance.

(10%) Training of students: The Research Assistant will supervise and train graduate, undergraduate, and/or DVM students in research projects.

This is a 12-month assignment with the possibility of extension based on continued availability of funding.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Animal Science, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A driver's license is required.

Desired Qualifications

Master of Science degree, area of study: Animal Science, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a two-year research-oriented degree program, such as a Master of Science degree; at least five years of related work experience in laboratory research techniques such as microscopy, flow cytometry, lipidomics/metabolomics; experience organizing and analyzing data using more advanced analysis techniques. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Strong organization capabilities (including calendaring), strong writing and computer skills, good attention to detail, and independent problem-solving skills. Attention to detail is critical, as well as the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, adhere to deadlines, maintain high ethical research standards, accept constructive criticism, and succeed in a team-oriented environment.

Minimum of two years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in basic research techniques such as cell/tissue culture, molecular biology (e.g., PCR, DNA/RNA/protein extraction), and/or ELISA; experience with word processing, spreadsheet, database and/or basic statistical software. A driver's license is also required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Cover letter
• Contact information for two references.

Special Instructions

The interested applicant should submit a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information for two references. For questions, please get in touch with search committee chair, Dr. Angel Abuelo at abuelo@msu.edu.

Work Hours

This is a 40-hour per week position, mostly during standard hours (8 AM- 5 PM). However, non-standard working shifts might be required on rare occasions to support ongoing projects.

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

http://www.abuelolab.com/

Summary of Physical Demands

• May require heavy lifting.

Summary of Health Risks

• Work with animals and unfixed animal tissue.

Bidding eligibility ends September 2, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.