Research Assistant I

About the role

The Nicaise and Willis Labs in the Department of Neuroscience at UAMS are seeking a Research Assistant I to support investigations into neuroinflammation and glial dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. This role will involve managing laboratory operations and performing a variety of molecular and animal‑based techniques.

Key responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day lab operations, including inventory, ordering, and compliance with IACUC/IBC protocols.
• Coordinate onboarding and training for new lab members and serve as the primary contact for lab logistics.
• Perform mouse colony management, breeding, and tissue sample preparation.
• Conduct molecular biology procedures such as RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR, Western blotting, immunostaining, and bacterial culture.
• Maintain lab notebooks, protocols, and data management systems.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree with at least one year of research experience.
• Formal training or experience in animal colony maintenance, genotyping, and molecular techniques.
• Ability to ensure compliance with university, state, and federal safety guidelines.

Required skills

• Animal colony management and mouse handling.
• Genotyping, Western blot, real‑time PCR, qPCR.
• DNA/RNA extraction and protein extraction.
• In vitro tissue culture maintenance.
• Bacterial culture, transformation, and viral vector production.

What we offer

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for qualifying staff and families.
• Holiday, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement plan with up to 10% matched contribution.
• Education discounts for staff and dependents.
• Career training and educational opportunities.