What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant I - Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine position at West Virginia University?
The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine within the Health Science Center of WVU in Morgantown, WV is currently accepting applications for a Research Assistant I.
About The Opportunity
We are seeking a motivated research assistant to join our laboratory, located within the Health Science Center of WVU in Morgantown, WV. Our research focuses on membrane receptors, such as G-protein coupled receptors, whose mutations are linked to various cardiovascular, neurological, or metabolic diseases. We apply interdisciplinary approaches including cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics and structural biology to understand the structure and function of these receptors, as well as seek therapeutics to treat related diseases.
The selected candidate will learn cutting-edge technologies including the state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy, perform independent research, and present at our weekly group meetings. Successful candidates should also have exceptional documentation and organizational skills for research and lab operations in addition to excellent teamwork skills.
Benefits
We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
Hours: 30
West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.
From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.
At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.
Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.
West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.
Job Posting
Oct 6, 2026
Posting Classification
Classified
Exemption Status
Non-Exempt
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full-time
About The Opportunity
We are seeking a motivated research assistant to join our laboratory, located within the Health Science Center of WVU in Morgantown, WV. Our research focuses on membrane receptors, such as G-protein coupled receptors, whose mutations are linked to various cardiovascular, neurological, or metabolic diseases. We apply interdisciplinary approaches including cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics and structural biology to understand the structure and function of these receptors, as well as seek therapeutics to treat related diseases.
The selected candidate will learn cutting-edge technologies including the state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy, perform independent research, and present at our weekly group meetings. Successful candidates should also have exceptional documentation and organizational skills for research and lab operations in addition to excellent teamwork skills.
Benefits
We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
- 37.5-hour work week
- 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
- 15 annual leave (vacation) days per year or more based on years of service (employee leave)
- 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
- WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
- 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ’s.
- Wellness programs
- Lab logistics
- Preparation of reagents
- Molecular cloning
- Protein expression and purification
- Cell culture
- Data processing and analysis
- Mentoring junior lab members
- Overall maintenance of laboratory
Hours: 30
- Bachelor's Degree in life sciences or related field required.
- A minimum of 0-6 months of experience in lab/research.
- Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
- All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.
- Knowledge of laboratory environment and appropriate procedures
- Experience in general cell biology and molecular techniques
- Ability to prepare reagents
- Ability to use Microsoft office and other related lab software/applications
- Skilled at using general laboratory equipment
- Good organization skills and self-motivation
- Willingness and ability to learn new protocols/procedures in a rapid manner
- Ability to get along with others in a group setting
- Lab research experience including molecular cloning and protein purification is preferred
West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.
From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.
At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.
Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.
West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.
Job Posting
Oct 6, 2026
Posting Classification
Classified
Exemption Status
Non-Exempt
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full-time