Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

The Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory with the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University is hiring a Research Assistant to provide skilled technical and research support studying the behavior, development, and molecular biology of Cassiopea (upside-down jellyfish) and other cnidarians.

This position is central to establishing and maintaining the laboratory's live animal collection, including husbandry and culture of jellyfish across polyp and medusa life stages and the operation of aquatic life-support systems. In addition to daily animal care, the Research Assistant will assist in designing and conducting behavioral and molecular experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining detailed records, and preparing results for publication.

The selected candidate will also collaborate closely with the principal investigator, students, and other research personnel.

Salary:
Starting at $45,000.00 and commensurate based on the selected candidate's education and experience.

Opportunities to Contribute:

• Assist in the design, planning, and execution of behavioral, developmental, and molecular experiments using Cassiopea and other cnidarians.
• Maintain husbandry and cultures of cnidarians across polyp and medusa life stages and keep detailed written and digital records of life-stage progression, environmental conditions, and health observations.
• Set up, operate, monitor, and troubleshoot aquatic life-support systems and associated research equipment.
• Carry out molecular biology experiments including but not limited to antibody staining, plasmid cloning, RNA extractions, and RNAi tool development, and setup RNAi experiments.
• Use computers and laboratory or technical equipment to perform data collection, statistical analysis, and technical evaluation of experimental results.
• Evaluate and summarize experimental results and contribute to laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain the health and daily care of the laboratory's live cnidarian collection.
• Ensure consistent operation of aquatic life-support systems through routine water changes, environmental monitoring, and preventive maintenance.
• Manage supplies, live-feed cultures, and biosecurity for the animal facility.
• Assist in preparing and writing manuscripts and proposals to funding agencies.
• Help maintain records and financial accounts related to research projects.
• Assist with reports, ordering and inventory, and cataloging of specimens and research records.
• Assist and train students and other laboratory, technical, or field staff in animal husbandry and research techniques.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as but not limited to Biology and Zoology.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs (e.g., water containers, equipment, and supplies).
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motions while performing husbandry and laboratory tasks.
• Manual dexterity and near-vision acuity for detailed animal care and microscopy.
• Will work near saltwater and in wet conditions.

A well-qualified candidate may also possess:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, marine science, or a closely related field.
• Familiarity or interest in molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR) and/or behavioral research methods.
• Hands-on experience with husbandry and culture of jellyfish or other cnidarians.
• Knowledge of laboratory maintenance and equipment and aquatic animal husbandry and aquatic life-support systems.
• Experience rearing Cassiopea or other cnidarians across polyp and medusa life stages.
• Experience with Python data analysis and scientific communication.
• Knowledge of computer systems and software relevant to the role.
• Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

What you need to do:

Apply! Submit a cover letter, CV/Resume to assist us with the review process. You may upload these documents on the application under CV/Resume. 

Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered, or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a Linked In profile to prepopulate the online application.

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are:
Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

The Department of Biology at Texas A&M University is responsible for research and teaching within the vast disciplines of the biological sciences, from molecular cell biology to ecology and evolutionary…