Research Associate - Orthopaedics

The Research Associate (RA) will work under the Principal Investigator in a stem cell research laboratory within the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. The RA will coordinate daily research activities and ensure studies are conducted in a timely and scientifically sound manner.

Responsibilities include performing experiments involving stem cell isolation and culture, small animal handling and surgery, drug administration, and harvesting human and animal tissues for analysis. The RA will help maintain the quality and accuracy of ongoing studies.

This person must be able to work independently and to establish priorities for the on-going work of this laboratory. The work hours are generally Monday through Friday from 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. Additional hours may be required.

Regular attendance is required to perform the functions of this position.

Incumbent will maintain a customer-oriented awareness in acknowledging and responding to needs as they occur that customer satisfaction is met at all times.

Essential Position Functions & Duties

50% Coordination of Research

Conduct assigned research projects using established laboratory techniques. Perform experimental procedures including small animal handling, drug administration (e.g., injections), and assistance with small animal surgical procedures in compliance with approved protocols. Apply specialized methods such as stem cell isolation, culture, and maintenance while ensuring proper technique and documentation. Collect, analyze, and interpret data, and collaborate with faculty and lab members to refine methods and advance studies. Manage multiple projects effectively, demonstrating strong organization, attention to detail, and adherence to timelines.

30% Lab Maintenance and Ordering

Maintain accurate and organized records of experimental data in notebooks and electronic systems. Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained and operational; coordinate servicing as needed. Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant lab environment, including cleaning work areas, sterilizing glassware, and following safety protocols. Monitor inventory and order laboratory supplies as needed to support ongoing research activities.

10% Data Preparation

Assist in preparing data for presentations, reports, manuscripts, and grant proposals. Draft and organize written materials, contributing to clear and accurate scientific communication. Communicate findings effectively with team members and support collaborative data interpretation.

5% Regulatory Compliance

Support compliance with laboratory safety standards and animal research regulations (e.g., IACUC). Maintain proper documentation for audits and inspections. Perform additional duties as assigned, contributing to a collaborative and high-performing research environment.

5% Marginal Functions

Performs other related duties and special assignments as director by supervisor.

The applicant must meet the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, or a related medical science from an accredited institution.

Experience working in a biology laboratory in addition to experience handling small animals, injecting drugs into animals, and small animal surgery. Experience conducting stem cell isolation and cultures is also preferred. The successful candidate should possess excellent oral and written communication skills for the preparation of reports, manuscripts, and proposals. The successful candidate should possess a strong work ethic, a collaborative spirit, excellent attention to detail, and a developed capacity to manage projects.

PSN/PER Number: PSN 60042/PER 3691

Salary Range: $35,000 - $55,000  

Primary Location: Shreveport, LA (On-Site)

The LSU Systems Office has provided LSU Health-Shreveport employees with excellent benefit options designed with you and your dependents in mind. Our Benefits Section is available between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, to help answer any questions you might have about these benefits.

• Salary is commensurate with experience and training
• Generous Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Optional Retirement Plans

LSU Health is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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