How much coursework is needed prior to Research Assistant position?

[wormboge]

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I know that some research assistant job descriptions spell out exactly how much education they are looking for in candidates, but if they don't, how much coursework is typically expected? For example, if I were to apply for a research assistant position or research coordinator position in a cardiology lab with only a year of biology and no other coursework, do you think that would be adequate? What about dermatology, surgery, psychology, etc.? Do you think these coursework expectations apply equally to Harvard and Brigham and Womens and all other institutions? Also, should a candidate know something about research before applying (to research assistant/coordinator jobs without a specified amount of experience/level of education), other than that they want to learn about it?

 

[LizzyM]

LOL... not sure if coursework is really what investigators are looking for. They might be looking for specific skills you've learned in classes. They may also be looking for a certain approach to things... one PI that I heard of will ask if you follow recipes when you cook.