Research Assistant
Company: Marshall University
Location: Huntington
Posted on: April 1, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description: The Childs Laboratory in the
Department of Biomedical Sciences at the Joan C. Edwards School of
Medicine at Marshall University is seeking a Research Assistant to
join our team studying the neural mechanisms of addiction. This
position is ideal for a recent graduate in biology or a related
field who is interested in gaining research experience before
applying to graduate, medical, or MD/PhD programs. A commitment of
1–2 years is preferred to allow sufficient time to train and to
contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects. However, a longer-term
position may be possible for the right candidate. The Childs
Laboratory investigates the neurobiology of drug-seeking and
relapse, with a focus on the medial habenula, a critical brain
region involved in motivation and addiction. Our research combines
behavioral neuroscience and molecular approaches to understand how
the medial habenula contributes to addiction. Research approaches
in the lab include: Rodent behavioral models of addiction In vivo
neural activity recording using fiber photometry Viral and genetic
tools for targeting defined cell populations Molecular and
epigenetic analyses ( RNA -seq, RRBS , RTqPCR, ChIPqPCR, etc.)
Histology and fluorescence imaging Statistical analysis of
biological datasets Principal Responsibilities The research
assistant will work closely with Dr. Childs and other laboratory
members to support ongoing projects. Responsibilities will include:
Conducting behavioral experiments in mice Assisting with or
learning surgical techniques in mice, including stereotaxic surgery
and intravenous catheterization Maintaining and monitoring
experimental mouse colonies Collecting and processing brain tissue
for molecular analyses Performing molecular biology techniques such
as nucleic acid extraction and qPCR preparation Assisting with
imaging experiments and data collection Organizing experimental
data and assisting with basic data analysis Working collaboratively
with other researchers in the lab Training and Mentorship This
position offers extensive training in modern neuroscience
techniques and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to ongoing
research projects. Research assistants will receive mentorship in:
Experimental design Data analysis and scientific interpretation
Scientific communication and career development Research assistants
who perform well will have opportunities to contribute
intellectually to projects and may earn authorship on resulting
publications
Keywords: Marshall University, Charleston , Research Assistant, Science, Research & Development , Huntington, West Virginia
