Research Assistant - Biology

University of Texas Permian Basin • Odessa, TX

42d • $26,000

About The Position

The Research Assistant for Biology plays an essential role in the Department of Biology, contributing directly to NIH R01-funded studies focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and ALS. This position is responsible for supporting a wide range of laboratory activities, including small animal behavior studies, tissue dissection, molecular assays, and cell culture techniques. The Research Assistant works closely with faculty researchers and lab teams to collect, analyze, and report scientific data, while also helping prepare lab materials and maintain a clean, well-functioning research environment. This role supports the university's commitment to advancing scientific discovery and student research opportunities. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on lab work, values scientific accuracy, and thrives in a collaborative, research-driven setting. This position is fully supported by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) R01 grant and is contingent upon the availability of external funding. Grant funding has been secured for the next four years, and the position is expected to continue through the duration of that period. Candidates should be aware that employment is tied to the life of the grant and may not be extended beyond the funded timeframe.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology or biomedical science
• Undergraduate students with at least one year of biomedical research experience

Nice To Haves

• Previous animal genotyping experience
• Worked in biomedical science, specifically, neurodegenerative disease field
• Familiar with small animal research models

Responsibilities

• Performing small animal behavior study;
• PCR analysis and transgenic mouse genotyping;
• The assessment and observation of animal behavior.
• The practice of animal dissection and the isolation of tissues.
• Immunohistochemical and fluorescence microscopy;
• Tissue culture;
• Plasmid isolation and cell transfection;
• Run SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis;
• Scientific data collection and analysis;
• Report and discuss the experimental results with the supervisor;
• Assisting preparation of biology lab materials, including chemical solutions, and supplies;
• Reinforce engagement in routine laboratory upkeep including equipment maintenance.

Benefits

• UT Permian Basin offers an excellent compensation package including heath, retirement, & fringe benefits for eligible employees.
• Coverage includes medical, prescriptions, life insurance, AD&D, and matching retirement provided by UTPB.
• You may also be eligible to add dental, vision, family coverage, & flex-spending accounts, additional retirement, and a few other coverages as options too.
• Fringe benefits include tuition reimbursement (after one year of service), wellness breaks, employee assistant program (EAP), and meal deals, among other perks and discounts!
• Our benefits package, along with an ample leave policy, make for a great total compensation package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees