Post-Baccalaureate Research Associate bei Merrimack College

Position Description:

The Matern Lab at Merrimack College is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Post-Baccalaureate Research Associate to support research on inner ear sensory cell biology using organoid models. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Maggie Matern and members of a collaborative research team to generate and analyze stem cell–derived inner ear organoids, with the goal of uncovering the molecular mechanisms that drive sensory cell development. For more information on Dr. Matern & the Matern Lab, please see MaternLab.com.

This role will also support Merrimack College’s Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility (SIRF) and Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) Lab, assisting with the use and upkeep of advanced

instrumentation for molecular biology research, and may be asked to provide laboratory instructional time if needed.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Perform stem cell culture and assist in generating inner ear organoid models.

• Carry out molecular biology techniques, including PCR, cloning, and immunostaining.

• Support tissue sectioning, imaging, and data collection for experiments.

• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records.

• Assist with general lab upkeep, ordering supplies, and equipment maintenance.

• Support the Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility (SIRF) by helping with the use and upkeep of advanced imaging and molecular biology equipment.

• Collaborate with lab members to ensure smooth execution of experiments and share technical expertise.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or a related field (or equivalent laboratory experience).

• Prior hands-on experience with cell culture is strongly preferred.

• Familiarity with molecular biology methods (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis, immunostaining).

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• Excellent communication and record-keeping skills.

• Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques and support shared facility operations.

Application Materials Should Include:

• Cover letter (describing your motivation and interest in the position, highlighting relevant experience, and reflecting on how your values align with Merrimack College’s mission and community)

• CV/Resume

• Names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position is subject to the successful completion of a criminal background check. 

Statement on Our Mission

Merrimack College is a Catholic Augustinian institution of higher education committed to building an accepting and respectful community. Our mission is to enlighten minds, engage hearts and empower lives and is inspired by our Catholic faith and the Augustinian tradition of seeking truth through inquiry and dialogue.  

Merrimack College seeks candidates who understand, respect, and can contribute to Merrimack’s Catholic and Augustinian mission. All candidates should describe in their application how they will foster a culture that supports our mission.

About Merrimack College

The only Catholic, Augustinian institution of higher education in New England, Merrimack College is a private, independent, coeducational institution with more than 4,100 undergraduate, 2,500 graduate students and 50 doctoral students from 48 states and 63 countries. The College features more than 160 career-focused undergraduate, professional and graduate programs, all taught by exceptional faculty who are passionate about their subject and student success. The College has six schools: arts and sciences, engineering and computational sciences, nursing and health sciences, education and social policy, the Girard school of business and the graduate school of counseling and social work. The College’s suburban 220-acre campus is just north of Boston in North Andover, Massachusetts. Merrimack is a Master’s Colleges and Universities/Larger Programs (M1) institution in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Merrimack is one of the fastest growing educational institutions in the country and has steadily climbed up in the U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of Best Colleges, ranking 38th in the Regional Universities North category in 2026. Merrimack is a NCAA Division I athletic institution.

Merrimack College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.