Research Assistant / Administrative Coordinator

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:

1. Resume or CV
2. Short cover letter (up to 1 page) describing:

1. Your background and interest in cancer research / p53 biology
2. Why you are interested in working at Institute 53

1. Names and contact information for 2–3 references (academic or professional)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

How to Apply

Please send the following to info@institute53.org:

1. Resume or CV
2. Short cover letter (up to 1 page) describing:

1. Your background and interest in cancer research / p53 biology
2. Why you are interested in working at Institute 53

1. Names and contact information for 2–3 references (academic or professional)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.