Research Assistant - Mellon College of Science - Chemistry Department

Pittsburgh, PAFull-timePosted Jul 28, 2026

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Ly Lab in the Department of Chemistry at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a Research Assistant. This position will be focusing on Chemical Biology and Synthetic Biology. The chosen candidate will collaborate with graduate students on multidisciplinary research projects, gaining hands-on experience in molecular modeling, chemical synthesis, analytical characterization, molecular biology techniques, and cellular functional analysis to investigate complex biological systems.

Core Responsibilities

  • Full participation in the research program
  • Design experiments
  • Execute experiments
  • Interpret experimental data
  • Formulate new hypotheses
  • Preparation of manuscripts for publication

Other duties as assigned

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University.  We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED required. Current or recent undergraduate students majoring in chemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or biomedical engineering preferred.
  • Previous research experience preferred.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.
  • A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

  • Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information: 

  • Please visit Why Carnegie Mellonto learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. 

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

  • Statement of Assurance

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