Research Assistant – Brachova-Alvarez Laboratory

The Brachova-Alvarez Laboratory is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team investigating the molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging and female reproductive biology. Our research integrates cutting-edge molecular, cellular, and computational approaches to understand how RNA processing, mitochondrial function, and ovarian cell composition contribute to reproductive lifespan and fertility.

Job Responsibilities:

Position Overview

The Research Assistant will contribute to NIH- and foundation-funded projects focused on:

Ovarian follicle development during the estrous phases and during aging.
Alternative splicing and RNA isoform regulation in oocytes and granulosa cells.
Mitochondrial complex I dysfunction and its impact on ovarian function.
Application of advanced multi-omics approaches, including long-read direct RNA sequencing, single-cell RNA-seq, and spatial transcriptomics.

Responsibilities

Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments (RNA isolation, PCR, sequencing library preparation, tissue culture, and mouse ovary electroporation).
Assist with ovarian follicle cultures and histological analyses.
Manage laboratory records, data entry, and sample organization.
Collaborate with graduate students, postdocs, and faculty to execute experiments.
Maintain compliance with institutional protocols for animal and biosafety research.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in biology, Molecular/Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field (required).
Prior laboratory research experience (preferred, but not required).
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Opportunities

This position provides excellent training for candidates interested in pursuing graduate or medical education. Research Assistants in our lab gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art genomics, transcriptomics, and reproductive biology techniques, and are encouraged to participate in publications and presentations.

This position is being filled through the Research Foundation, which is a separate entity from Old Dominion University (ODU). While we work in support of ODU, the Research Foundation operates independently and is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization.

To apply:
Visit http://researchfoundation.odu.edu/ then click on the “Employment” tab and follow the link to “Apply” Specify position #25-059.

The organization is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer (AA/EOE/M/F/Disability/VETS/Drug-Free Workplace). We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all individuals in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions — including recruitment, hiring, training, compensation, and promotion — are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Affirmative action efforts are conducted consistent with applicable laws to promote equal opportunity in employment and advancement.

Old Dominion University Research Foundation

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