Research Assistant

Job Description:

About Brown:

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more.  To learn about Brown University’s benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page here for further information.

About the Opportunity:

The Robert J. & Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science is committed to supporting research and facilitating collaborations in brain science across the Brown University community and beyond. Our mission is to promote discovery and innovation in brain science by supporting a diverse community of experimentalists, theorists, engineers, and clinical scientists. We do this by recruiting and retaining world-class faculty, creating an outstanding collaborative training environment, seeding innovative projects, supporting collaborative teams, and raising the visibility and reputation of Carney researchers.

Responsibilities:
The Fluid Biomarkers Laboratory within the Center for Alzheimer’s Disease Research is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to evaluate novel biomarkers in samples from Alzheimer’s Disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The role will involve executing a variety of biomarker based assays both manually and using automated equipment in a range of research projects to identify early biomarkers; to develop new hypothesis about disease origins; to assess treatment efficacy in clinical trials (in-house and external contracts); to develop new assays informed by biological and brain science researchers; and to support longitudinal patient studies.

 

Qualifications:
 

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Biology or related field is required.

• 1-2 years of related research experience an academic, clinical, or industrial setting or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Familiarity with basic lab techniques following Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) is required.

• Strong understanding of fundamental laboratory math and dilution principles is required.

• Proficiency with basic laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

• Knowledge of PCR and ELISA techniques is preferred. 

• Experience working with clinical samples (serum, plasma, blood, urine, or tissues) is preferred.

 

Job Competencies

 

• Must be highly organized, detail-oriented, and have a strong motivation to learn.

• Must possess strong record keeping and time-management skills.

• Must be able to prepare chemical and biological solutions following precise concentration and volume specifications as well as conduct and verify laboratory calculations, including molarity, percent concentrations, dilutions (C1V1=C2V2 and fold dilutions), and unit conversions.

• Ability to lift and move objects up to 25 pounds.

• Ability to work with human samples (e.g. blood) under appropriate biosafety containment.

• Ability to manage work processes in a neat and orderly way, to follow instructions, and to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a team.

• Ability to learn new methods/techniques and follow multi-step protocols, methods, and SOPs (essential for clinical studies).

• On own initiative, ability to identify potential problems and troubleshoot problems as necessary.

• Proficiency with computers and essential software programs. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software suite, Adobe Creative Suite and competence in basic laboratory statistical analysis is desired. 

 

Salary Grade:

8

Additional Information: 

Applicants are asked to include a resume and cover letter. 

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

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

Recruiting Start Date:

2025-10-30

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science

Grade:

Grade 8

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

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.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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.