OPT Research Assistant Jobs
Research Assistant jobs are among the most OPT-friendly roles available, particularly at universities, research hospitals, and federally funded labs that routinely hire F-1 students. Most positions align directly with STEM degree fields, which matters for your 24-month STEM OPT extension eligibility.
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Get Access To All JobsThe Horlbeck Lab studies how disruption in the cellular machinery that regulates our genome and epigenetics leads to differences in how stem cells differentiate. In particular, they focus on a group of genetic disorders called “chromatinopathies,” with the ultimate goal of finding treatments for these disorders. This research has broader implications on the understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and the fundamental mechanisms of gene regulation. The Horlbeck Lab use cutting-edge techniques including CRISPR-based screening, single-cell RNA and chromatin accessibility sequencing, and advanced computational methods. Research will primarily be conducted in reference and patient-derived iPSC neuronal models. This position would also build the lab’s ability to perform mouse studies and would focus on a mix of basic and translational projects on Kabuki syndrome.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Kabuki syndrome projects under the supervision of the principal investigator and lab team members
- Perform a variety of cell culture techniques, including routine maintenance and differentiation of iPS cell cultures, to support ongoing research projects
- Conduct molecular biology assays including RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, CUT&Tag, and single-cell methods
- Perform mouse handling in accordance with institutional and animal care guidelines, including routine husbandry, health monitoring, and maintenance of the research mouse colony
- Perform dissection, sectioning, and processing of mouse specimens
- Establish and maintain the lab animal care protocol in collaboration with the principal investigator and the animal facility staff
- Coordinate with a Genetic Counselor to receive, process, and store patient samples under institutional guidelines
- Maintain accurate laboratory records, ensure compliance with safety and animal care protocols, and contribute to the organization and upkeep of laboratory equipment and supplies
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in STEM & Psychology
Experience: Minimum of one year of relevant experience
- Previous mouse handling experience highly preferred
Status
Full-Time
Regular, Temporary, Per Diem
Regular
Standard Hours per Week
40
Pay Range
$49275.20-$78832.00 Annual
Office/Site Location
Boston
Job Posting Category
Research
Remote Eligibility
Onsite Only
The Horlbeck Lab studies how disruption in the cellular machinery that regulates our genome and epigenetics leads to differences in how stem cells differentiate. In particular, they focus on a group of genetic disorders called “chromatinopathies,” with the ultimate goal of finding treatments for these disorders. This research has broader implications on the understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and the fundamental mechanisms of gene regulation. The Horlbeck Lab use cutting-edge techniques including CRISPR-based screening, single-cell RNA and chromatin accessibility sequencing, and advanced computational methods. Research will primarily be conducted in reference and patient-derived iPSC neuronal models. This position would also build the lab’s ability to perform mouse studies and would focus on a mix of basic and translational projects on Kabuki syndrome.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Kabuki syndrome projects under the supervision of the principal investigator and lab team members
- Perform a variety of cell culture techniques, including routine maintenance and differentiation of iPS cell cultures, to support ongoing research projects
- Conduct molecular biology assays including RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, CUT&Tag, and single-cell methods
- Perform mouse handling in accordance with institutional and animal care guidelines, including routine husbandry, health monitoring, and maintenance of the research mouse colony
- Perform dissection, sectioning, and processing of mouse specimens
- Establish and maintain the lab animal care protocol in collaboration with the principal investigator and the animal facility staff
- Coordinate with a Genetic Counselor to receive, process, and store patient samples under institutional guidelines
- Maintain accurate laboratory records, ensure compliance with safety and animal care protocols, and contribute to the organization and upkeep of laboratory equipment and supplies
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in STEM & Psychology
Experience: Minimum of one year of relevant experience
- Previous mouse handling experience highly preferred
Status
Full-Time
Regular, Temporary, Per Diem
Regular
Standard Hours per Week
40
Pay Range
$49275.20-$78832.00 Annual
Office/Site Location
Boston
Job Posting Category
Research
Remote Eligibility
Onsite Only
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Research Assistant
Target STEM-designated programs first
Research Assistant roles tied to STEM degrees qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm your degree program's CIP code is on the STEM OPT list before applying, so you maximize your authorized work window.
Prioritize university and federal lab employers
Universities, national labs, and federally funded research centers hire F-1 OPT students regularly and often have dedicated HR processes for work authorization. They're far less likely to reject your application over visa status than private employers.
Clarify your authorization upfront
State in your cover letter that you're authorized to work on OPT and specify your end date. Research employers deal with sponsored visa holders often, and transparency early removes hesitation before the interview stage.
Align your research experience to the lab's focus
Principal investigators care about methodological fit, not just degree level. Tailor your application to match the lab's published research, naming specific techniques or datasets you've used that overlap with their ongoing work.
Ask about E-Verify enrollment before accepting
STEM OPT extension requires your employer to be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm this during the offer stage, not after. Most universities and large research institutions already participate, but smaller private labs may not.
Document your training plan early for STEM extension
STEM OPT requires a formal training plan on Form I-983 signed by your employer. Raise this with your supervisor before your initial OPT expires, giving both sides enough time to complete the paperwork without gaps in authorization.
Research Assistant OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Research Assistant on OPT without employer sponsorship?
Yes. OPT work authorization comes from USCIS through your university's DSO, not from your employer. You can work as a Research Assistant at any qualifying employer without them filing any petition on your behalf. The employer simply needs to be enrolled in E-Verify if you're on STEM OPT extension.
Does a Research Assistant role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It can, but the determining factor is your degree field, not the job title. Your degree's CIP code must appear on the official STEM OPT designated degree program list. If you hold a STEM degree in biology, computer science, or engineering, a Research Assistant role in that field will almost always qualify.
How do I find Research Assistant jobs that actively hire OPT students?
Migrate Mate specializes in jobs that welcome OPT and visa-sponsored candidates, making it a practical starting point for Research Assistant roles. University job boards and federal agency postings are also strong sources since those employers routinely hire F-1 students and are already familiar with OPT work authorization requirements.
Does working as a Research Assistant count toward OPT employment requirements?
Yes, paid Research Assistant positions count toward your OPT employment requirement. Part-time positions (20 hours or more per week) also count. You must report the employer to your DSO within 10 days of starting. Unpaid volunteer research may not satisfy the requirement, so confirm the position is compensated before accepting.
Can I work as a Research Assistant at multiple institutions simultaneously on OPT?
Yes. OPT allows concurrent employment, so you can hold Research Assistant positions at more than one employer at the same time. Each position must be in a field directly related to your degree. You're required to report all employers to your DSO and ensure cumulative hours meet the minimum employment threshold for your authorization period.