Research Assistant- AZ- Physiology

About the role

Midwestern University – Glendale campus invites applications for a Research Assistant position in the Department of Physiology within the College of Graduate Studies. This position supports a grant-funded research program in reproductive physiology and toxicology focused on the effects of environmental chemicals on reproductive function. This is a full-time, grant-funded position, and continued employment is contingent upon ongoing grant support.

Responsibilities

• Perform research procedures in support of ongoing experimental studies under the direction of the Principal Investigator or senior lab member.
• Lead all aspects of mouse colony management, including breeding strategy design, genotyping coordination, recordkeeping, and maintenance of colony health and productivity.
• Conduct in vivo mouse experiments, including animal handling, dosing, tissue collection, and necropsy in accordance with approved IACUC protocols.
• Execute experimental procedures using mouse models to investigate reproductive physiology and toxicology endpoints, including coordination of timed matings and developmental studies.
• Ensure strict adherence to institutional animal care and use guidelines, maintaining compliance with all regulatory and safety standards.
• Assist with molecular and cellular laboratory techniques (e.g., RNA/protein extraction, qPCR, histology, immunohistochemistry) using tissues derived from mouse studies.
• Support data collection, management, and analysis; assist in preparation of figures, abstracts, posters, and manuscripts.
• Train and mentor students in mouse handling, colony management, and laboratory techniques, as well as safety procedures and proper recordkeeping.
• Maintain accurate laboratory and animal records, including colony databases, experimental logs, and regulatory documentation.
• Maintain organization of laboratory space, equipment, and supplies; coordinate procurement of laboratory and animal-related materials.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and contribute to team-based research activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in physiology or a related field is required.
• 0–2 years of relevant research experience is required.
• Experience working with mouse models is strongly preferred, including handling, breeding, colony maintenance, and sample collection.
• Familiarity with animal research protocols and regulatory compliance (e.g., IACUC) is preferred.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment is essential.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) is required.
• Experience with GraphPad or other statistical analysis software is preferred.

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to sit and use hands for handling or manipulating objects.
• Sometimes required to stand, walk, and push or pull equipment.
• Sometimes required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must have correctable vision to 20/20 (including depth, color, and close vision).
• Must have correctable hearing to normal levels.