Visiting Research Assistant - Mellon College of Science - Chemistry Department

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it.

The Sydlik Research Group in the Department of Chemistry seeks a Visiting Research Assistant to support interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry, biomaterials, microbiology, and medicine. The successful candidate will contribute to projects focused on improving human health through the development and evaluation of biomaterials for orthopedic applications and metal toxicity. Research will be conducted in close collaboration with investigators at UPMC and other medical research partners.

Responsibilities

• Perform bacterial culture, microbiological assays, and biofilm experiments following established laboratory protocols.
• Assist with mouse studies, including preparation, sample collection, record keeping, and coordination with collaborators, in accordance with approved animal care protocols.
• Prepare reagents, maintain laboratory supplies, and ensure accurate experimental documentation.
• Analyze and organize experimental data and contribute to laboratory meetings and collaborative research discussions.
• Maintain a safe, organized laboratory environment while complying with University, biosafety, and animal care regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, polymer science, biomedical engineering or related field required.
• Experience with bacterial cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Experience performing microbiological assays.
• Experience assisting with animal research, preferably murine models.
• Ability to accurately document experimental procedures and data.
• Previous training in laboratory biosafety or animal research (preferred).
• Eligibility to complete CMU and IACUC-required laboratory safety and animal training (preferred).
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Access to Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Position Type: Staff – Fixed Term
Full Time/Part Time: Part time
Pay Basis: Hourly