Research Assistant I

Job Description:

Position Summary

The Johnston Lab in the Department of Pathobiology & Diagnostic Investigation at Michigan State University has an opening for a one-year Research Assistant position.

The position starts in Summer 2026. The Research Assistant will contribute to data collection, processing, visualization, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of results. The candidate will be involved in preparing conference presentations and writing scholarly manuscripts.

Duties for this position will include:

• 40%: General laboratory support
  • Conduct basic molecular biology research, which includes but is not limited to cell culture and multiple assays/ techniques (RNA, DNA, and protein extraction; real-time qPCR, Western blotting, cell-function assays, ELISA, immunofluorescence staining, confocal and transmission electron microscopy, and flow cytometry).
• 60%: Data Collection, analysis, and distribution
  • Utilize basic computer skills to log data, conduct routine computer analysis of research data.
  • Perform genomic data analysis and interpretation of data from raw sequence files (processing NGS and RNAseq data, sequence alignment, variant calling, and expression analysis).
  • Work with R and Python.
  • Contribute to scholarly dissemination of data through poster and manuscript preparation.

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Biomedical Science or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in biomedical research being performed; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• Basic computer skills
• Experience with genomic data analysis, analyzing and interpreting data from raw sequence files (processing NGS and RNAseq data, sequence alignment, variant calling, and expression analysis).
• Experience working with R and Python.
• Research experience using basic molecular techniques including but not limited to but not limited to protein, RNA, and DNA extraction; real-time PCR; cell culture; lentiviral transduction; immunoblot; cell-function assays; ELISA; immunofluorescence staining and microscopy.
• Ability to assist with research design and project management.
• Excellent organizational and written communication skills.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Resume/CV
• Contact information for three references

Special Instructions

Please direct questions to Dr. Andrea N. Johnston, DVM, PhD; [email protected]

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://cvm.msu.edu/pdi

Summary of Health Risks

Works with animals and unfixed animal tissue.

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends June 23, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.