Research Assistant – Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory

About the role

The Cnidarian Sleep Research Laboratory in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University seeks a motivated Research Assistant to support studies on the behavior, development, and molecular biology of upside‑down jellyfish (Cassiopea) and related cnidarians.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain and expand the live cnidarian collection, handling both polyp and medusa stages.
• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot aquatic life‑support systems and related equipment.
• Design and conduct behavioral, developmental, and molecular experiments.
• Collect, analyze, and document experimental data, ensuring accurate records.
• Assist in manuscript and grant proposal preparation.
• Manage supplies, live‑feed cultures, and biosecurity for the animal facility.

Required profile

• Degree in biology, marine science, or a related field.
• Experience with animal husbandry, especially aquatic organisms.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.

Required skills

• Antibody staining
• Plasmid cloning
• RNA extraction
• RNAi tool development and experiments
• Statistical analysis of experimental data
• Operation of aquatic life‑support systems

What we offer

• Starting salary of $45,000, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to contribute to publishable research in a cutting‑edge laboratory.
• Professional development through collaboration with faculty and graduate students.