Research Assistant

Research Assistant I

The Muller Lab at Cellular and Molecular Physiology (CaMP) at Loyola University Chicago is looking to bring on a new Research Assistant to join our team. The start date will be May or June 2026, with ideal start date by mid-May. The mission of the Muller Lab is to deepen our understanding of cardiac cyclic nucleotide cell signaling and physiology, using cell-based systems and animal models.

Our research focuses on hemodynamics in normal healthy state to pregnancy to heart failure states. Our lab is a space where as a team we make exciting discoveries while supporting the individual and scientific growth of every member. We value integrity, pursuit of the truth, camaraderie, and creativity. Please check out the lab website (mullerheartlab.org) for more information on the lab's research and culture.

For the Level I RA position we are specifically looking for an individual with: A BA/BS in animal physiology with mandatory animal research experience, with a minimum one-year commitment. The primary project will be to assist in animal open-heart surgery, pre- and post-surgery care, to collect and analyze telemetry-aided electrocardiography traces, perform terminal surgery, perform biochemical assays on frozen tissue samples, and (if desired) contribute to manuscript writing and revision work.

The prior and current technicians who were in this position have successfully enrolled in medical school, and this position may be ideal for motivated med or grad school hopefuls looking to deepen their understanding of cardiovascular physiology, animal physiology, and molecular biology. However, this is a demanding position and not for someone who lacks discipline.

Skills the individual will develop in the lab include: logical and reasoning skills, effective communication, critical evaluation of data and research articles, and basic-to-advanced laboratory skills encompassing cell to animal physiology (cell isolation and culture, FRET and calcium/sarcomere imaging techniques, protein and DNA assays, open-heart surgery in preclinical models, rodent husbandry and surgery including mouse and guinea pig). In addition, the individual will receive customized mentoring and career coaching to consider and achieve their professional goals using various strategies:
Individual Development Plan using SMART goals, regular one-on-one meetings with PI, interview prep if relevant, formal discussions with the lab as a group, and presentation opportunities to present to the lab, collaborators, and the department.

Minimum Education and/or Work Experience

- Education Required:

Bachelors Degree OR equivalent training acquired via work experience or Education Preferred:
Bachelors Degree Experience

Required:

None Preferred: 1-2 years of previous job-related experience

Qualifications - BS/BA in Biology or related field. Preferred: undergraduate or post-bac research experience in animal physiology

Computer Skills
- Word and Excel software knowledge, willingness to learn lab specific software as needed.

Supervisory Responsibilities
- No

Required operation of university owned vehicles
- No

Does this position require direct animal or patient contact? - Yes

Physical Demands
- None

Working Conditions
- Animals

Open Date - 03/26/2026

Close Date

Position Maximum Salary or Hourly Rate - $20.00/hr

Position Minimum Salary or Hourly Rate - $16.60/hr