College of Pharmacy

Student Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Assistant — NIH-Funded Antibiotic Drug Discovery
Ferris State University | College of Pharmacy

Do you enjoy exploring scientific questions related to your future career? Join Dr. Eric Nybo’s laboratory and gain hands-on research experience through a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded antibiotic drug discovery project. This position offers an opportunity to connect classroom learning with laboratory research aimed at developing new antibiotics.

Students in Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), Biotechnology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Forensic Biology, and Industrial Chemistry are especially encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates have an interest in organic chemistry, microbiology, drug discovery, and problem-solving .

Responsibilities may include assisting with laboratory experiments, preparing research materials, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining accurate laboratory records, and discussing experimental results with the research team. Activities may involve microbiology, molecular biology, and natural products chemistry.

Applicants should be curious, dependable, attentive to detail, and willing to learn new techniques. Relevant coursework or laboratory experience is helpful. Students will have opportunities to develop practical laboratory skills, scientific reasoning, teamwork, and communication skills relevant to their future careers.

Pay: Starting at $14.49, increased for professional-level students
Hours: 5 - 10 hours per week

• Demonstrate a foundational understanding of organic chemistry, microbiology, or related subjects relevant to antibiotic drug discovery.
• Be able to complete detailed research assignments, follow laboratory protocols, and solve problems with appropriate guidance.
• Possess relevant coursework, laboratory experience, or technical skills appropriate to the assigned research activities.
• If University driving is required, complete a motor vehicle report authorization form. Human Resources must review the report to determine eligibility to drive on behalf of the University.

• Collect, organize, and maintain accurate research data and laboratory records.
• Use database and spreadsheet software to enter, manage, summarize, and analyze experimental data.
• Exercise sound judgment when collecting and evaluating data, identify inconsistencies, and consult the research supervisor when problems or questions arise.

Ferris State University, an Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to cultivating an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences within its community, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence.  Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. For more information on the University’s Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.