Research Assistant (Mouse Colony & Laboratory Operations) – Liang Lab

The Wistar Institute•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

The Liang Laboratory at The Wistar Institute is seeking a highly responsible and motivated Research Assistant with a primary focus on mouse colony management. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with mice, is highly organized, and takes pride in maintaining a well-run and compliant research environment. Our laboratory studies fundamental cellular processes—including autophagy, apoptosis, DNA damage/repair, and intracellular trafficking—in cancer biology and viral infection. This position centers on mouse colony oversight and lab operations support, rather than independent research projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining a healthy, well-organized mouse colony and supporting efficient lab function. There is potential for expanded responsibilities in lab operations over time.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field (or equivalent experience).
Hands-on mouse experience required (breeding, genotyping, colony management).
Highly organized, reliable, and able to work independently.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with mouse genetics preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintain and expand mouse colonies (breeding, genotyping, and colony tracking).
Plan breeding strategies and genetic crosses.
Monitor colony health, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with institutional guidelines.
Coordinate closely with animal facility staff and veterinary personnel.
Assist with IACUC/IBC (and related) protocols and ensure compliance with animal use regulations.
Serve as a liaison with the animal facility and compliance offices.
Strong accountability for animal welfare and colony integrity.
Willingness to support time-sensitive tasks, including occasional weekend/holiday checks.
Proactive planning to ensure continuity of colony management.
Assist with inventory, ordering, and lab organization.
Maintain SOPs, records, and equipment coordination.
Support onboarding and training of new lab members.
Contribute to onboarding and training of new lab members where appropriate.