Research Assistant II, Rare Disease Translational Center

The Jackson Laboratory • Bar Harbor, ME

1d • $42,751 - $71,575 • Onsite

About The Position

The Rare Disease Translational Center at The Jackson Laboratory develops clinically relevant mouse and cell-based/in vitro models of rare diseases and uses them to evaluate potential treatments, including gene therapy and RNA-based approaches. The Research Assistant supports this work by characterizing disease progression in models and generating data for preclinical studies. Work spans phenotyping and molecular workflows, including tissue collection, histology, microscopy, quantitative image analysis, molecular assays, and omics approaches such as RNA-seq and proteomics. The position owns defined workstreams and contributes data to translational decisions.

The role performs research tasks using established experimental methods, equipment, data collection tools, and analytical techniques; troubleshoots and refines procedures; organizes and analyzes data; maintains research documentation, equipment, inventory, and workspace; and communicates results. It also supports research knowledge-sharing and the preparation of manuscripts, reports, presentations, and grant materials. Comprehensive mouse handling and husbandry skills are required.

The Rare Disease Translational Center works with foundations and their basic and clinical research teams to generate custom models with clinical mutations in support of research into rare disease treatments and cures. The position supports The Jackson Laboratory's mission to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and improve human health.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• At least 2 years of experience required.
• Comprehensive mouse handling and husbandry skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop research protocols.
• Demonstrated success coordinating and/or conducting multiple concurrent assignments or a multifaceted project.
• Ability to interact productively, professionally, and positively with individuals to support research-program goals.
• Established understanding of good laboratory safety practices and a demonstrated history of safe laboratory conduct.
• Self-motivation, effective time organization, and attention to detail.
• Advanced computer skills and ability to develop technical documents and presentations.
• Team-oriented, professional, positive attitude, and willingness to be flexible.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Regular, reliable, and consistent attendance.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 4 years of experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot research procedures, adjust techniques or quality-control measures, and identify when methods require refinement.
• Review and maintain research documentation, contribute to methodology updates, and collaborate with team members as needed.
• Manage laboratory resources, including inventory, equipment, and workspace coordination.
• Demonstrate procedures and assist with training by sharing research knowledge.
• Perform assigned research tasks using established experimental methods, equipment, data collection tools, and analytical techniques.
• Organize, analyze, and summarize research data using scientific and statistical tools.
• Contribute to manuscripts, reports, presentations, and grant materials.
• Conduct multiple experiments and maintain associated equipment, ensuring clear and timely communication of results.
• Handle and care for mice to support research operations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level