Position Title:

Temporary Biochemistry Research Assistant

Compensation:

$15 hourly

Department:

Chemistry - Temp

Start Date:

05/11/2026

About this opportunity:

This is an opportunity to participate in fundamental research in biochemistry, contribute to the progress of NIH-funded project.
Candidates for searches must have current authorization to be employed in the
U.S. without employer sponsorship.

What you'll do and what you'll bring:

Position Description:

This is an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in Nucleic Acid BioNanotechnology.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Method Development and Experimental Design:

• Develop, optimize, and implement experimental protocols for studies in RNA and DNA nanotechnology, nucleic acid self-assembly, and molecular biophysics.

• Perform biochemical and biophysical experiments involving nucleic acids, including preparation, purification, and characterization of RNA/DNA nanostructures.

• Utilize relevant analytical techniques (e.g., fluorescence-based assays, gel electrophoresis, spectroscopy, thermal denaturation studies, and other nucleic acid characterization methods).

• Follow established laboratory protocols and collaborate with the primary research faculty to refine experimental strategies.

• Monitor experimental conditions, troubleshoot technical issues, and assess experimental outcomes to improve reproducibility and reliability.

Training and Mentorship:

• Provide hands-on training to junior laboratory members (undergraduate students) in nucleic acid handling, experimental techniques, and standard laboratory practices.

• Assist in developing training materials and ensuring adherence to best practices in molecular biology and biophysical experimentation.

Data Acquisition and Analysis:

• Design and perform biochemical and biophysical assays to generate quantitative and qualitative data relevant to RNA nanotechnology and nucleic acid interactions.

• Collect, organize, and validate experimental data using appropriate software and analytical tools.

• Assist faculty in interpreting experimental results and preparing data for research publications and presentations.

Documentation and Data Management:

• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records in electronic or written laboratory notebooks.

• Compile, process, and archive experimental data, protocols, and results in accordance with laboratory and institutional standards.

• Ensure proper data organization to facilitate reproducibility and long-term accessibility.

Communication and Dissemination of Results

• Contribute to preparation of research reports, manuscripts, and grant materials.

• Present research progress and findings in laboratory meetings and other scientific venues.

Laboratory Operations and Safety

• Assist in maintaining a safe, organized, and efficient research environment.

• Participate in laboratory safety programs and ensure compliance with institutional biosafety and chemical safety guidelines.

• Assist with routine laboratory organization, equipment maintenance, and inventory of reagents related to nucleic acid research.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field with substantial coursework in chemistry and laboratory sciences.

• Foundational knowledge of chemical and biochemical laboratory techniques.

• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and follow established experimental protocols.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior laboratory experience in academic or research settings, particularly in nucleic acid chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, or biophysics.

• Experience with biochemical or biophysical techniques relevant to nucleic acid research (e.g., gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid purification, fluorescence-based assays, spectroscopy, or quantitative data analysis).

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present experimental results clearly and maintain organized documentation.

How to apply:

To apply, upload the following documents:

• Cover Letter-Optional but preferred

• Resume/Curriculum Vita-required

IMPORTANT: To ensure accurate processing of your application, do not rely on a resume upload to populate the job experience section. All work history must be entered directly into the application fields.