Research Assistant

Job Description:

The Research Assistant will conduct experiments in the following two projects.

(1) Cell and Developmental Biology: Identifying how a protein of interest contributes to cellular functions and development, using sea urchin embryonic cells and human cancer cells.

(2) Evolutionary Developmental Biology: Discovering how molecular evolution alters the developmental program and contributes to species diversity, using multiple echinoderm embryos.

Both projects require skills in general molecular biology, cell biology, embryology or live imaging such as general microscopy, microinjection, embryo handling, and confocal imaging. Any necessary training for the above experiments will be provided.

This is a fixed term position with a current end date of one year after the date of hire, which may be extended based upon available funding.

Job Qualifications:

Education and Experience (Grade 7)

• Required:  Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Undergraduate research experience with previous experience working in a laboratory setting; a completed and good-quality honorary thesis preferred.       
• Relevant coursework and basic knowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology, and Developmental Biology.
• Prior experience demonstrating precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples is strongly desired.Experience in general microscopy preferred.
• Experience in confocal live imaging and microinjection is highly preferred. 
• Familiarity with the following software for data analysis, construction of images and movies and data presentation is highly preferred: FIJI, Image J, R, MatLab, MecaGen, Linux, Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, PowerPoint
• Good record and sample-keeping practice.

Education and Experience (Grade 8)

• Required: Bachelor degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics or related field and 1-2 years’ experience 
• Or, equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Relevant coursework and basic knowledge of laboratory approaches and techniques in the areas of Molecular, Cell Biology and Biochemistry.
• Experience in general microscopy preferred.
• Experience in confocal live imaging and microinjection is highly preferred. 
• Familiarity with the following software for data analysis, construction of images and movies and data presentation is highly preferred: FIJI, Image J, R, MatLab, MecaGen, Linux, Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, PowerPoint
• Prior experience demonstrating precise and contamination-free handling of RNA, protein, and DNA samples is required.
• Good record and sample-keeping practice.

Job Competencies

• Excellent written and communication skills  
• Ability to be observant and self-motivated
• Ability to think critically and problem-solve
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with co-workers
• Great attention to detail for every experiment with logical reasons.
• Accurate sample/data labeling, organization, and storage.

• Ability to complete accurate records and follow detailed instructions
• Proactive communications with the PI and senior lab members.
• Good work ethic with honesty and accuracy.

• Ability to report any questions and problems in a timely-fashioned manner

Criminal background and education check required.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-09-30

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry

Grade:

Grade 7

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite

Submission Guidelines:

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.

Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.

Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.  

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [email protected].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.