Research Assistant I

Position Summary

This position is ideal for an experienced, well-organized and self-motivated researcher looking to build a career in biomedical research. The Research Assistant will join a research lab focused on understanding causes, developing novel therapies, and studying biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. The applicant will primarily be responsible for assisting in experimental lab work and maintaining and preparing lab reagents. The position will primarily involve a combination of lab work and lab operation tasks. The experimental duties will include processing of proteins, cell culture samples and/or brain tissue samples followed by carrying out experimental analysis using techniques biochemical assays such as Western blotting, ELISAs and/or related assays. The work will also entail processing and using tissue samples in imaging applications such as immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. Benchwork will also include molecular biology techniques such as DNA cloning and mutagenesis and/or recombinant protein production approaches. Finally, the work may also include aiding in obtaining rodent behavioral data, intracerebral gene therapy delivery in rodents and tissue collection methods. The position is in the laboratory of Dr. Nicholas Kanaan in the Department of Translational Neuroscience, located at the MSU Grand Rapids Research Center, 400 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Neurobiology or related field; 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. 

Desired Qualifications

The applicant should have a Bachelor's degree in a scientific field, preferably molecular biology, neuroscience, or a related field. It is necessary they have experience performing basic research techniques (i.e. pipetting, preparing buffers and other lab reagents) as well as some of the other specific tasks described in this posting. The ideal applicant should be detail-oriented, organized, and self-motivated, should be good at follow instructions carefully and learning new tasks. The candidate must also interact, communicate, and work well with others. Competence with word processing and spreadsheet software and ability to learn new computer-based software systems is a must.

Prior experience working in an academic or industry lab and performing some of the described experimental techniques is a major plus. In particular, experience with biochemical techniques, animal husbandry and related procedures, post-mortem tissue processing is desired. Prior experience or training in neuroscience and/or cell and molecular biology laboratories is preferred. 

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 or resume, contact information for 2-3 references

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

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

https://translationalscience.msu.edu/

Summary of Health Risks

Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue

The Bidding Eligibility ends on 10/21/2025 at 11:55 PM