Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

Texas A&M University System • College Station, TX

11d • Onsite

About The Position

The Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory within the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University is seeking a Research Assistant to provide skilled technical and research support for studies on the behavior, development, and molecular biology of Cassiopea (upside-down jellyfish) and other cnidarians. This role is crucial for maintaining the laboratory's live animal collection, including husbandry and culture of jellyfish across different life stages, and operating aquatic life-support systems. The Research Assistant will also be involved in designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining records, and preparing results for publication, while collaborating with the principal investigator and other research personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as but not limited to Biology and Zoology.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs (e.g., water containers, equipment, and supplies).
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motions while performing husbandry and laboratory tasks.
• Manual dexterity and near-vision acuity for detailed animal care and microscopy.
• Will work near saltwater and in wet conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, marine science, or a closely related field.
• Familiarity or interest in molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR) and/or behavioral research methods.
• Hands-on experience with husbandry and culture of jellyfish or other cnidarians.
• Knowledge of laboratory maintenance and equipment and aquatic animal husbandry and aquatic life-support systems.
• Experience rearing Cassiopea or other cnidarians across polyp and medusa life stages.
• Experience with Python data analysis and scientific communication.
• Knowledge of computer systems and software relevant to the role.
• Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, planning, and execution of behavioral, developmental, and molecular experiments using Cassiopea and other cnidarians.
• Maintain husbandry and cultures of cnidarians across polyp and medusa life stages and keep detailed written and digital records of life-stage progression, environmental conditions, and health observations.
• Set up, operate, monitor, and troubleshoot aquatic life-support systems and associated research equipment.
• Carry out molecular biology experiments including but not limited to antibody staining, plasmid cloning, RNA extractions, and RNAi tool development, and setup RNAi experiments.
• Use computers and laboratory or technical equipment to perform data collection, statistical analysis, and technical evaluation of experimental results.
• Evaluate and summarize experimental results and contribute to laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain the health and daily care of the laboratory’s live cnidarian collection.
• Ensure consistent operation of aquatic life-support systems through routine water changes, environmental monitoring, and preventive maintenance.
• Manage supplies, live-feed cultures, and biosecurity for the animal facility.
• Assist in preparing and writing manuscripts and proposals to funding agencies.
• Help maintain records and financial accounts related to research projects.
• Assist with reports, ordering and inventory, and cataloging of specimens and research records.
• Assist and train students and other laboratory, technical, or field staff in animal husbandry and research techniques.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Free exercise programs and release time
• All employees have access to free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more
• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee
• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

What This Job Offers

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