Research Assistant

Vanderbilt University • Nashville, TN

21d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant will support research conducted in the Davies and Doran laboratories. The role requires strong organizational skills, careful attention to experimental detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively with laboratory personnel and research teams. The position is a term staff appointment from November 1, 2026, through October 31, 2027.

The Research Assistant will conduct protein expression experiments; maintain mammalian and primary mouse and human cell cultures; assist with approved mouse studies; process biological samples; perform routine molecular and cellular biology assays; and maintain laboratory records, inventories, reagents, and equipment. Animal procedures may be performed only after appropriate training and authorization, in accordance with university policies and approved protocols.

This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week. The regular schedule is generally during standard weekday working hours, with occasional evening or weekend work possible to accommodate experiments and project needs. Applicants should submit a résumé or curriculum vitae, a cover letter describing relevant research experience and interest, and contact information for three professional references through the Vanderbilt University careers portal.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
• Previous laboratory research experience, including experience working with laboratory mice and mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and follow detailed protocols.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with primary mouse or human cells, particularly macrophages.
• Experience with protein expression and related biochemical techniques.
• Familiarity with mouse procedures such as intraperitoneal injection, oral gavage, and tissue collection.
• Experience with molecular biology, immunology, flow cytometry, microscopy, or protein analysis techniques.

Responsibilities

• Perform protein expression experiments, including preparation, optimization, and analysis of recombinant proteins.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using appropriate sterile technique.
• Culture and handle mouse and human primary cells, including macrophages.
• Generate bone marrow-derived macrophages from mice.
• Assist with in vivo mouse studies in accordance with approved experimental protocols.
• Handle mice and perform procedures such as intraperitoneal injections and oral gavage after appropriate training and authorization.
• Collect, dissect, and isolate tissues from mice for downstream analyses.
• Process biological samples, including cells, tissues, and protein preparations.
• Perform routine molecular and cellular biology assays as required by the research project.
• Maintain accurate and timely laboratory records, sample inventories, and experimental documentation.
• Prepare reagents, buffers, and culture media.
• Operate, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Follow institutional, federal, and laboratory-specific requirements for biosafety, animal care, and research compliance.
• Contribute to data collection, interpretation, laboratory meetings, and preparation of reports, presentations, and research materials.
• Assist with ordering supplies and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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