Research Assistant (Biology)

Research Assistant (Biology)

Amherst Campus
Full Time
JR6974

Amherst has taken a leadership role among highly selective liberal arts colleges and universities in successfully diversifying the racial, socio-economic, and geographic profile of its student body. The College is similarly committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration and staff.

Job Description:

Amherst College invites applications for the Research Assistant (Biology) position. The Research Assistant (Biology) is a full-time, fixed-term position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $20.87-$22/hour.

The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to relevant education, training, and experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory business considerations. Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. Click here for Benefits Information.

The Research Assistant investigates the process of tissue organization during embryonic development of the sea anemone at the Ragkousi lab at Amherst College. The research project(s) will involve molecular genetics, biochemistry, embryology and cell biology techniques. The research assistant is expected to contribute to all aspects of the lab's research activities, including training and mentoring undergraduate students in the Ragkousi Lab. The Research Assistant will also assist with lab management on a limited basis.

Takes appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participates in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.


Summary of Responsibilities:

Research

• Protein biochemistry in sea anemone cell extracts, including protein purification, protein detection, and immunoprecipitation
• In situ detection of RNA expression in developing embryos
• Imaging of sea anemone embryos and cells using confocal microscopy
• Quantification of images and RNA sequencing data using basic bioinformatic tools
• Animal maintenance and husbandry. RA will maintain animals weekly (feeding and cleaning), perform crosses to generate new lines, and propagate current lines

Training undergraduate students with basic laboratory techniques


Lab management - supervises 3-5 undergraduate students in the Ragkousi Laboratory

Qualifications:

Required

- Bachelor's Degree; Molecular Biology

- 1 to 3 years of related experience

- Equivalent work experience in lieu of minimum education and related experience

- Knowledge of molecular biology techniques, emphasis on protein biochemistry

- Use of Microscope and experience in Confocal Microscopy a plus

- Experience with analytical/bioinformatic tools a plus

- Attention to detail

- Written and verbal communication, time management and organizational skills

- Analytical and problem-solving skills

- Willing to learn new techniques and procedures

- Commitment to working in a welcoming and inclusive community

- Successful completion of required reference and background checks

- An acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) check

Preferred

- Master's Degree in Science

Interested candidates are asked to submit a resume and cover letter online at Please be sure to upload all requested documents prior to clicking Submit. Applications cannot be revised once submitted. (Current employees and students should apply by clicking on the Jobs Hub icon from their Workday home screen.) Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Amherst College is committed to an inclusive hiring process and will provide reasonable accommodations for candidates throughout the application and interview process upon request.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

To apply, visit

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