Research Assistant II

Position Summary The College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University seeks a highly skilled and motivated Research Assistant II to manage the Leonard Laboratory. The Research Assistant will aid the PI in planning and performing ophthalmology research.

• 70%: Support to laboratory-based research activities: provide high-level technical support to the Leonard lab, assist in the design, execution, and troubleshooting of experiments, keep detailed records, assist with data entry and preliminary analysis.
• 20%: General laboratory management: support laboratory management, including calendaring, ordering, managing research budgets, writing grants, manuscripts, and AUFs, ensuring user laboratory safety training and compliance.
• 10%: Training of students: supervise and train graduate, undergraduate, and/or DVM students in research projects.

This is a 12‑month assignment with the possibility of extension based on continued availability of funding. Work hours are 8‑5 with possible weekends.

• Knowledge equivalent to completing a four-year college degree program in a specific field of research (Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related science field) or an equivalent combination of education and experience; 3–5 years of related and progressively responsible work experience in overseeing research projects, laboratory operations, and advanced analytical techniques.

• Master of Science degree or equivalent in Animal Science, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of two years of related and progressively more responsible work experience in basic research techniques such as cell/tissue culture, molecular biology (PCR, DNA/RNA/protein extraction), and/or ELISA; experience with word processing, spreadsheet, database and basic statistical software.
• Experience in advanced laboratory research techniques such as microscopy, flow cytometry, transcriptomics, and data analysis using advanced techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, strong organization and writing skills, good attention to detail, independent problem‑solving skills, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high ethical research standards and working in a team‑oriented environment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.