Research Assistant

Job Description:

Summary:

The Research Assistant will have three major duties: 1) performing and advising lab members on Drosophila behavior experiments including data acquisition, analysis, visualization and interpretation of high-content behavior data, 2) performing Drosophila brain dissection, immunohistochemistry and microscopy, and 3) Drosophila husbandry, maintenance and genetics. This position will also support ongoing research throughout the lab by assisting with general lab maintenance and contributing to manuscript preparation.

The Kaun Laboratory uses molecular and genetic tools available in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster to investigate the neural substrates of memory, reward, and addiction at the molecular and cellular level. The Laboratory’s goal is to develop the fly as a model to study more complex behavioral aspects associated with addiction.  A multi-tiered approach is used to understand the genes, molecules, and neural circuits underlying these complex behaviors. A combination of molecular biology and bioinformatics is utilized to understand the molecular mechanisms through which memory circuits respond to drugs of abuse. An interdisciplinary approach is used that combines molecular genetics with behavioral analysis to understand the in vivo mechanism of memories at the level of individual circuits and their component cells.

This position has a fixed term end date of one year from date of hire, which may be extended based upon availability of funding.

Qualifications:

Education And Experience

• Required:  Bachelor’s degree in Neurobiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related science
• Required: Prior related research experience or extensive coursework working in an organized biology research laboratory (grade 7)
• Required: 1-2 years related research experience working in an organized biology research laboratory (grade 8)
• And/or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Interest in scientific research
• Knowledge of experimental planning and design
• Proficiency in data visualization
• Proficiency in data analysis, including statistical analysis
• Proficiency with computers and essential software programs
• Familiarity with use of Drosophila as a model organism
• Required: 1-2 years related research experience working in an organized biology research laboratory (grade 8)
• And/or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Interest in scientific research
• Knowledge of experimental planning and design
• Proficiency in data visualization
• Proficiency in data analysis, including statistical analysis
• Proficiency with computers and essential software programs
• Familiarity with use of Drosophila as a model organism

Job Competencies

• Ability to perform or willingness to learn behavior tracking data visualization and analysis
• Maintain agreed upon day-time work hours to allow for assistance of experiments for lab members
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational, record keeping, task prioritization, and report preparation skills
• Ability to collaborate on projects
• Dependability and accuracy in work
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a diverse group of people, with vastly different skills and training

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION CHECK REQUIRED

Benefits Of Working At Brown:

Information on the Benefits of Working at Brown can be found here.

Recruiting Start Date:

2025-10-06

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Department of Neuroscience

Grade:

Grade 7

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite

Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Eeo Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.