Research Assistant

If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at [email protected].

Job Description

Job Summary

The Research Assistant will support research on circadian rhythms in mice. Our lab investigates the negative health impacts of disrupted sleep schedules, jet lag, and shift work, with a focus on how light can entrain biological rhythms and the role of communication from the eye to the brain and from the brain to peripheral organs.

This is a temporary, non-benefits-eligible position that we are seeking to fill as soon as possible. The position will continue based on the College’s temporary staffing needs.

The Research Assistant will contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment and support the College’s commitment to a diverse workforce.

Essential Functions

Responsibilities include:

• Oversee mouse colony maintenance and genotyping and perform health assessments on experimental animals.
• Assist with processing and sectioning formalin-fixed tissue, including Nissl staining.
• Maintain laboratory inventory, order research supplies, and assist with the maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Contribute to data collection, analysis, and publications on completed research in collaboration with other lab members.
• Coordinate undergraduate lab assistants with data entry and routine laboratory maintenance, including dishes, autoclaving, and stocking.
• Collaborate actively and effectively with other members of the research team.
• Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equity, and inclusiveness.
• Participate in the College’s efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• BA/BS in neuroscience, biology, or a related field.
• At least 2–3 years of relevant laboratory experience using techniques or methods applicable to the position.
• Rodent handling experience.
• Familiarity with common life sciences laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Ability to maintain a well-organized and accurate laboratory notebook.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team, as well as independently, with the ability to problem-solve.
• Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a BSL-2 laboratory.
• Prior experience programming in R.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain a breeding colony of transgenic mice and coordinate genotyping.
• Excellent oral and written communication, organizational, and record-keeping skills.
• Enthusiasm and scientific curiosity for circadian rhythms research.

Skills

Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively both collaboratively as part of a research team and independently on assigned research projects.

Compensation

Pay for this role is typically between $22.30 - $27.26 hourly covering the middle half of market compensation. Actual compensation will vary based on individual qualifications.

Position Type

Fixed Term

Please attach BOTH a current resume and a cover letter in order for your application to be considered for this position. Be sure you have provided all attachments before submitting your application.

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About Smith College

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women’s colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts.  A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 151B, it is the policy of Smith College to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our recruiting team at [email protected].

As set forth in our mission and values, Smith College is committed to promoting a culture of  equity and inclusion among students, staff and faculty.  The College will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by law. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination.