Research Assistant

Job Summary

The Department of Neuroscience and the laboratory of Dr. Lance Johnson are seeking a Research Assistant to support ongoing research on brain metabolism and neurodegenerative disease. Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator and senior lab members, the Research Assistant will perform routine laboratory experiments and standard techniques, process and maintain biological samples and specimens, and support day‑to‑day lab organization, data management, and record‑keeping.

The role also includes limited administrative support, such as attending team meetings and assisting with routine correspondence and scheduling. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail‑oriented, comfortable following established protocols, and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

• Perform routine laboratory experiments and standard techniques.
• Process and maintain biological samples and specimens.
• Support day‑to‑day lab organization, data management, and record‑keeping.
• Attend team meetings and assist with routine correspondence and scheduling.

• Required
  
  Education:
  
  Bachelor of Science
• Required Experience: 1 year in a research setting
• Preferred Experience: Prior laboratory experience (not required)
• Preferred Education: Bachelor’s of Science
• Physical Requirements: Sitting/standing for long periods, lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Shift: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday; additional hours may be required based on specimen procurement needs.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.