Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

Job Title

Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Biology

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Here’s a Glimpse of the Job

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.

Special Note: Due to this position’s salary having all or a portion of it being funded by grants or contracts, the continuing salary and overall employment is contingent upon availability of these funds in the future

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 LinkedIn 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 biology. Our faculty perform cutting-edge research in a wide array of biological sciences in the laboratory and in the field. Our graduate research programs prepare scientists for careers in academia, industry and government and enhance our understanding of the central role of biological systems in the global environment. Our undergraduate students gain a firm foundation in modern biological sciences to prepare them for a multitude of careers that depend on a solid understanding of biology. To learn more, please visit us at https://www.bio.tamu.edu/.

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration.  Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you.  Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.  

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums 

• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays  

• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month 

• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas  

• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time 

• Professional Development: All employees have access to free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more  

• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee 

• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees 

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.