Research Assistant II | Lau Lab

The Jackson Laboratory • Farmington, CT

47d

About The Position

Research Assistant II – Lau Lab The Ching Lau Lab focuses on pediatric brain and bone tumor research, including tumor genomics, development of cell and mouse models, liquid biopsy technologies, and therapeutic discovery. Our mission is to improve the survival and outcomes of pediatric patients through innovative translational research. This Research Assistant II will support these efforts by performing mouse experiments, processing clinical samples, and conducting cell‑based assays. Under supervision, this role involves executing and optimizing experimental procedures, analyzing data, and preparing reports. Success in this position requires a deep commitment to advancing pediatric oncology, solid technical abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work efficiently in a fast‑paced research environment. Flexible scheduling—including evenings, weekends, and holidays—is required based on laboratory and project needs.

Requirements

• Advanced skills in mouse handling, husbandry, and biomethods.
• Basic statistical proficiency; experience with GraphPad Prism and/or R preferred.
• Ability to prepare technical documents, maintain databases, and develop clear, well‑organized presentations.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with a proven ability to meet project deadlines and manage shifting priorities with a positive, adaptable attitude.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a commitment to effective collaboration in a team‑oriented environment.
• Reliable, consistent attendance and a strong work ethic.
• Commitment to accuracy, safety, and responsible laboratory conduct.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by experimental timelines.
• Ability to travel to Maine Campus for mouse handling and procedure training.
• Education Required: High School Diploma or GED
• Experience Required: 2 years

Nice To Haves

• Education Preferred: Bachelor's Degree
• Experience Preferred: 5 years

Responsibilities

• Maintain and manage mouse colonies and perform critical procedures including health monitoring, injections, imaging, and tissue collection.
• Keep up to date and amend, as needed, IACUC protocols at JAX and UCHC.
• Conduct and optimize laboratory experiments; support clinical sample processing, cell‑based assays, and patient‑derived xenograft (PDX) model development.
• Document experiments with high precision, perform initial data analysis using statistical tools, and maintain organized databases.
• Support the preparation of technical reports, presentations, and manuscripts; conduct literature reviews to evaluate and propose alternative experimental methodologies.
• Maintain laboratory resources inventory, and ensure strict adherence to ethical, safety, and regulatory standards.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED