Research Assistant II

The Campbell lab studies the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The lab takes three distinct approaches, all of which use human cerebral organoids as a human model of early brain development. The first approach is to understand how genes with high confidence ASD mutations alter neurodevelopment. The second approach is to determine how common genetic variants with genome-wide significant association with ASD alter neurodevelopment. The third approach is to expose human cerebral organoids – with a variety of genetic backgrounds – to environmental factors that are associated with ASD risk. Collectively, these approaches will identify biochemical networks that can be targeted for therapeutics.

The funded project involves extensive next generation sequencing (NGS) of RNA extracted from human cerebral organoids.

The job requires: knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Data Science, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or related science field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

The successful candidate must also have documented expertise in RNA extractions, NGS data generation and analysis, and validation of NGS bioinformatics pipelines.

Candidates with a Master's degree in Data Science, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a related science field are preferred.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

• Cover Letter
• CV

STANDARD 8-5

This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

http://phd.msu.edu

Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue and other body fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions.

Advertised: Sep 9, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Sep 22, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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