Research Assistant at Wainger Lab

Recruitment began on January 8, 2026

and the job listing Expires on February 8, 2026

We (waingerlab.org ) are a young and vibrant group applying biological, physiological and computational tools to understand and identify new treatments for motor and sensory neuron diseases. The laboratory is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic research assistant with experience in molecular biology and in particular stem cell biology to support preclinical studies related to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) and pain.

The research assistant will contribute to the intellectual development of a project, attend and present at lab meetings, and engage in the scientific community through opportunities to attend conferences and publish papers. The major responsibilities will include stem cell culture and differentiation, analysis of molecular disease-related phenotypes using patient and control as well as gene-edited iPSC lines, quantitative analysis of expression and sequence data, general molecular biology techniques such as immunohistochemistry, RNA isolation and PCR to analyze cells of interest.

Additional work will include assistance with ordering, laboratory maintenance and animal husbandry. Two year commitment required.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Stem cell culture and differentiation
• High-content imaging and physiology (calcium imaging/ optogenetics)
• Bioinformatic analysis of expression and sequence data
• Mouse brain and spinal cord dissection
• Purification of RNA and PCR
• Perform tasks associated with ordering, animal husbandry, and lab uptake
• Grant applications & protocols for Biosafety, Animals, and IRB
• May assist with drafting or contributing to the preparation of research papers, manuscripts or other documents for publication and/or presentation.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES

REQUIRED:

• Must be an enthusiastic, diligent and professional team player with excellent time management skills.
• Meticulous detail about laboratory techniques and documentation are required. Accurately maintaining records of laboratory work in sufficient detail for reproduction of the experiments, organizing, analyzing and summarizing acquired data.
• Must be able to work independently and as a member of a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

EDUCATION:

BA/BS in neurobiology, molecular biology, or related field

EXPERIENCE:

One year of previous relevant laboratory work experience strongly desired.

PLEASE CONTACT AND INCLUDE COVER LETTER, CV, AND TRANSCRIPT: