Contractual Cancer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Research Assistant / Administrative Coordinator Organization: Institute 53: Advancing p53 Cancer Therapeutics Location: On‑site – 2809 Emerywood Parkway, Suite 550, Richmond, VA 23294 Employment Type: Full‑time, entry level About Institute 53 Institute 53: Advancing p53 Cancer Therapeutics is a Virginia nonprofit corporation dedicated to curing cancer by targeting the p53 mutation pathway. We are establishing a cancer research laboratory and teaching institute in Richmond, VA, to accelerate discoveries and train the next generation of cancer researchers. Position Summary We are seeking an entry‑level Research Assistant / Administrative Coordinator to support our scientific work on the p53 pathway and perform essential administrative tasks. Approximately 75% of the role will be research support and 25% administrative support. This position is ideal for a recent graduate in a life science who is highly organized, detail‑oriented, and passionate about cancer research. Key Responsibilities Research Support (~75%) Expected to assist in bench top experiments, including but not limited to reagent and solution preparation, cloning and cell culture experiments focused on developing novel cancer therapy under supervision. Conduct literature searches (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar) and summarize key findings relevant to p53 and cancer biology. Maintain and organize laboratory inventories; track reagents, supplies, and equipment. Coordinate ordering of lab supplies and maintain records of orders and deliveries. Assist in collecting, organizing, and curating research data (spreadsheets, basic databases). Help prepare scientific presentations, figures, and reference lists for talks, grant applications, and manuscripts. Assist with preparation of teaching materials (slides, handouts, reading lists) for the Institute’s educational programs. Administrative Support (~25%) Manage calendars and schedule meetings for Institute leadership. Help respond to emails and phone inquiries and maintain contact lists. Format and proofread documents, letters, and simple reports. Assist with organizing electronic files and maintaining document/version control. Support basic bookkeeping and record‑keeping tasks (e.g., tracking expenses, filing receipts) in collaboration with leadership and an external accountant. Help coordinate logistics for meetings, seminars, and small events. Qualifications Required: Bachelor’s degree in life science (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science) or closely related field. Strong interest in cancer biology and motivation to contribute to cancer research. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize, and meet deadlines. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and/or Google Workspace. Clear written and verbal communication skills. Willingness to perform both research and administrative tasks as needed in a small, growing organization. Preferred (not required): Prior laboratory experience (undergraduate research, lab courses, or internships). Familiarity with scientific literature databases (e.g., PubMed) and reference managers (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley, EndNote). Experience preparing scientific presentations or posters. Experience in an academic, medical, or nonprofit setting. Compensation and Benefits Salary range: $48,000–$52,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include: 10 days of paid vacation per year, 5 days of paid sick leave, and 10 paid holidays. Significant opportunity to gain experience in cancer research focused on the p53 mutation pathway and to participate in building a new cancer research and teaching institute. How to Apply Please send the following to info@institute53.org: Resume or CV Short cover letter (up to 1 page) describing: Your background and interest in cancer research / p53 biology Why you are interested in working at Institute 53 Names and contact information for 2–3 references (academic or professional) Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.