Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

Texas A&M University’s Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory in the Department of Biology seeks a Research Assistant to provide skilled technical and research support studying the behavior, development, and molecular biology of Cassiopea (upside-down jellyfish) and other cnidarians.

About the role

The position is central to establishing and maintaining the laboratory’s live animal collection, including husbandry and culture of jellyfish across polyp and medusa life stages and the operation of aquatic life-support systems. In addition to daily animal care, the Research Assistant will assist in designing and conducting behavioral and molecular experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining detailed records, and preparing results for publication. The selected candidate will collaborate closely with the principal investigator, students, and other research personnel.

Starting salary: $45,000.00, commensurate with education and experience. This position is funded by grants or contracts; continued employment is contingent upon availability of these funds.

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; 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 antibody staining, plasmid cloning, RNA extractions, RNAi tool development, and setup of 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; 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, 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Biology, Zoology, or a closely related discipline.
• 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.
• Willingness to work near saltwater and in wet conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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, 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.
• Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life, and AD&D 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 for wellness activities.
• Professional development: 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 employed.
• Access to “Living Well,” a program built by employees for employees.
• Amenities associated with a major university, including sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and more.