Job Description SummaryOrganization's Summary Statement:
A position is available immediately for a Faculty Assistant to contribute to our studies in neural crest and placode cells in chick and mouse models. The Faculty Assistant will conduct research, assist in the training of students, and take a lead role in the management of the laboratory of Dr. Lisa Taneyhill at the University of Maryland, College Park.
The role requires active participation in experimental design, data generation and analysis, and scholarly dissemination. The successful candidate will operate within a dynamic research environment and contribute to advancing the lab’s scientific objectives. The role also requires strong organizational and lab management skills.
For additional information, please visit: http://www.ansc.umd.edu/people/lisa-taneyhill
Responsibilities:
• Contribute to daily laboratory operations, including organization, inventory, management, and compliance with safety protocols.
• Design and execute experiments focused on neural crest and placode cell development.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data; contribute to figure generation and scientific reporting.
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and reproducible laboratory records.
• Apply and maintain proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, histology, microscopy, cell culture).
• Assist with mouse handling, colony management, and related experimental procedures.
• Engage collaboratively with the PI and research team to advance project goals and timelines.
Minimum Qualifications:
• A Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) in a related field (e.g., cell biology, developmental biology) and prior laboratory research experience is essential.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Laboratory skills should include, but are not limited to, molecular biology and biochemistry assays, and tissue and cell culture.
Physical Demands:
• This position requires the lifting and moving of moderately weighted goods (20-50 lbs., for example, Centrifuge Rotors) up to 25 feet, operating tissue culture cell tanks, and utilizing hazardous chemicals and compressed gases. While performing the duties within this job, the employee frequently is required to maneuver, handle, or feel objects, tools, or instrument controls. This position requires prolonged periods of sitting at a microscope and other lab equipment as needed. Furthermore, the employee is regularly required to operate a computer.
• To operate specific lab equipment, the employee must utilize devices and make observations from diverse angles of perception: adjusting exploratory and imaging devices as needed. Employees may work in conditions with fluctuating temperatures, including spaces up to 83 F for extended periods.
Preferences:
• Experience with microscopy and embryology is desirable.
• Experience with mouse handling and colony management is desirable.
Additional Job DetailsRequired Application Materials: Cover letter, CV, transcript, list of three references
Best Consideration Date: 11/7/2026
Posting Close Date: NA
Open Until Filled: Yes
Financial Disclosure RequiredNo
DepartmentAGNR-Animal & Avian Sciences
Worker Sub-Type Faculty Regular
Salary Range$50,000 - $60,000
For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, select this link.
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment EligibilityThe successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO StatementThe University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
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