Part-Time Biology Research Assistant

Overview

The Gill Institute for Neuroscience (UA-GILL-IUBLA) is a research center at Indiana University that brings together world‑class scientists and state‑of‑the‑art facilities. The Institute focuses on determining the mechanisms underlying neurological health and dysfunction, enabling breakthrough interventions that transform mental health and improve quality of life.

Research Technician – Tracey Lab. This position is ideal for recently graduated undergraduate students who wish to gain research experience before applying to graduate school. Technicians in the Tracey Lab have successfully transitioned to PhD programs after 2–3 years in this role.

• Maintain Drosophila (fruit fly) stocks and monitor their health.
• Determine causes of unhealthy stock and administer proper care procedures.
• Master genetic characteristics of each strain and monitor culture conditions from one generation to the next.
• Maintain records of stock maintenance.
• Order supplies for the laboratory.
• Perform molecular biology tasks, including DNA extraction, PCR reactions, DNA sequencing, and molecular cloning experiments.
• Provide general lab support.
• Prepare bacteriology plates and stock solutions.

• Some coursework in biology or a related field.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology.

• Ability to follow written instructions and keep accurate records.
• Responsible and attentive to detail.
• Good organizational skills.
• Decision‑making skills.
• Ability to operate under limited supervision.
• Good judgment.

The job requires extended periods of microscope‑based work requiring fine visual focus, repetitive hand movements to manipulate laboratory materials, and the ability to lift and move stock trays (typically under 10 pounds) and discard materials that may exceed 10 pounds. The position is performed with or without accommodation.

$15.00 – $17.00 per hour. Up to 29 hours per week.

• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Health savings account with generous IU contributions.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Basic group life insurance paid by IU.
• Voluntary supplemental life, long‑term disability, critical illness, and supplemental accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
• Base retirement plan with generous IU contributions, subject to vesting.
• Voluntary supplemental retirement plan options.
• Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses.
• 10 paid holidays plus a paid winter break each year.
• Generous paid time off plans.
• Paid leave for new parents and IU‑sponsored volunteer events.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).

Bloomington, Indiana. This is an in‑person position.

Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring.