Research Assistant – Biological Sciences

Research Assistant – Biological Sciences

Wayne State University is searching for an experiencedResearch Assistant – Biological Sciencesat 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):

The Gourgou Lab is a new addition to WSU Department of Biological Sciences. We are studying the neuronal mechanisms of learning, decision making, and locomotion, using the nematode C. elegans as our model system. Our group employs behavioral assays, bright field and fluorescence microscopy, genetics, and molecular biology techniques. We are also taking advantage of 3D printing technology and engineering approaches.

We are looking to hire a laboratory technician, who will assist with setting up the new lab, and be responsible for nematode husbandry and nematode strains management, culture media preparation and nematode lines maintenance, purchases, chemical inventory organization, documentation, and general organization of the lab.

Moreover, the research assistant will be responsible for generating mutant strains and performing nematode crosses, and they will learn how to perform basic behavioral assays used in the lab, record and collect data, so that they can assist with training future students.

Active participation in research projects is an option, depending on the interests of the candidate.

Qualifications:

We are looking for a person with a degree in Biology, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience or other relevant field.

Wet lab and bench experience, as well as basic microscopy knowledge are required. Familiarity with Excel and Word (or other similar software) is also needed.

A Master’s degree is not required, but will be considered an advantage, as will prior experience in a nematode lab.

A successful candidate must be able to take initiatives and work independently and be a good team player.

Must be reliable and diligent, organized, motivated, and able to maintain excellent communication with the group leader and all team members.

Lastly, it is strongly preferred that the person to be hired resides a maximum 15-20 min drive from WSU main campus, to ensure quick access to the lab.

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 hire maximum: $38,000

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.

Equal employment opportunity statement:

Wayne State University provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. The university encourages applications from women, people of color and other underrepresented people. Wayne State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.