Life Science Research at Stanford Medicine, USA | Earn Upto $38.48 per hour | Apply Now
The Hinshaw Lab at Stanford Medicine’s Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology is opening its doors for a Life Science Research Professional 1 (LSRP 1). While Stanford has recently navigated a selective hiring pause, this Research Assistant Job remains a high-priority recruitment for their fundamental research program in cellular and molecular biology. In this role, you aren’t just a pair of hands; you are a key contributor to an innovative program that reconstitutes complex protein assemblies and visualizes them at near-atomic resolution.
- Life Science Research Professional 1
- Location: School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States
About The University
Stanford University continues to lead the global stage, currently ranked #3 in the world for its biomedical research and innovation. The School of Medicine is the heart of this excellence, fostering a “bench-to-bedside” philosophy that translates fundamental science into life-saving therapies.
The Science: Pushing Molecular Boundaries
The laboratory’s primary objective is to unravel the control of chromosome segregation in eukaryotic cells—a process essential for genetic inheritance and often deregulated in diseases like cancer.
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Biochemical Reconstitution: The lab develops new biochemical tools to “build” protein complex assemblies that control cell fate and the cell cycle in a test tube.
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Cryo-Electron Microscopy (cryo-EM): As the co-Director of the Stanford Cryo-EM Center, Dr. Stephen Hinshaw leads a team that uses high-energy electron beams to determine the structures of these reconstituted protein complexes.
Key Responsibilities
As an LSRP 1, you will operate in a hybrid capacity—part independent researcher and part laboratory steward.
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Experimental Design & Execution: You will plan and conduct experiments independently while troubleshooting complex protocols alongside senior lab members.
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Data Analysis & Maintenance: Beyond running gels or Western blots, you will apply scientific theory to interpret results and maintain meticulous records essential for publications.
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Mentorship & Operations: You will help orient and train new students, manage the chemical inventory, and ensure the lab space remains organized and safe.
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Scholarly Contribution: There is a direct expectation to contribute to the publication of findings and participate in presentations or proposals.
Qualifications & Required Skills For Life Science Research Opportunity
This Stanford Career path is designed for a highly motivated, detail-oriented scientist with a solid foundation in the “mechanics” of molecular biology.
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Education: A Bachelor’s degree in a related scientific field (Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, etc.) is required.
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Technical Proficiency: You should be comfortable with:
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Molecular Cloning: PCR, mutagenesis, and plasmid design.
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Biochemical Assays: Protein purification, gel electrophoresis, and Western blotting.
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Cell Culture: Handling both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell lines.
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Soft Skills: Strong quantitative skills, a supportive team player attitude, and a “willingness to learn” are highlighted as vital cultural fits.
Compensation & Work Arrangement For Life Science Research
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Pay Range: $32.58 to $38.48 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
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Work Arrangement: This is a 100% On-Site role based at the School of Medicine campus in Stanford, CA.
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Status: Full-time, Regular employee.
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Benefits: This role includes Stanford’s comprehensive rewards package, including medical coverage, retirement plans (like the Cardinal at Work program), and professional development opportunities.
While Stanford operates as an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, it’s helpful to look at the broader context of Life Science Research demographics. At major research universities like Stanford, the commitment to the IDEAL (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access in a Learning Environment) initiative drives recruitment strategies.
In summary, this Research Assistant Job is ideal for a scientist who wants to be on the cutting edge of structural biology while working in an “inclusive space that fosters curiosity”. The Hinshaw Lab provides the unique advantage of direct access to the Stanford Cryo-EM Center, making it a powerhouse for anyone looking to build a career in advanced microscopy and molecular physiology.
