Research Assistant/Associate – Sharan Lab

Texas Biomedical Research Institute•San Antonio, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Sharan Lab at Texas Biomedical Research Institute is seeking an enthusiastic, responsible, and skilled full-time Research Assistant or Associate. This role involves close collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI) on experimental projects focused on Tuberculosis and HIV/SIV pathogenesis. The work will be conducted in both mouse and nonhuman primate (NHP) models within BSL3 high containment and BSL2 laboratory settings. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in mouse sampling and immunological assays. Responsibilities include assisting the PI with data analysis, experimental design, and managing laboratory administrative tasks. The position also requires developing expertise in current lab techniques, standardizing protocols as needed, participating in lab meetings, and presenting experimental data. The candidate will be responsible for collecting, preparing, and reporting experimental results, and may provide guidance to junior technicians.

Requirements

At least 2 years’ experience of working with mouse experiments and immunological assays.
1 – 2 years’ experience in standard lab techniques such as preparation of PBMCs from blood, processing animal tissues for immunological assays, preparation of growth media, mouse infections.
A bachelor’s degree or higher in biology/immunology.
1 -2 years’ experience in working with NHPs or small animal model in BSL3 lab setting.
Strong leadership and teamwork qualities.
Good communication skills.
Commitment to the program for at least 2 years.
Willingness to learn new techniques and work with a multicultural team.

Nice To Haves

Flow cytometry experience is not a must but highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Collects, prepares, analyzes and evaluates specimens from mice and NHPs in BSL3.
Processes blood for PBMC collection and bronchoalveolar lavage samples from mice and NHPs in BSL3.
Prepares drug dosages for treatment of mice and NHPs.
Operates laboratory equipment, contributes to laboratory maintenance.
Orders lab supplies, keeps inventory of samples and reagents.
Assists in small animal surgery and necropsies.
Prepares media plates, counts bacterial CFUs.
Participates in training sessions and workshops as needed.
Prepares for animal necropsies: labelling of tubes, coordination with BSL3 staff and veterinarians.
Assists the PI in experimental design, data analysis as needed.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for you and your family—including pet insurance options.
Competitive employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one, increasing with years of service.
Generous paid time off, including 14 paid holidays and a paid Winter Recess (from the last week of December through New Year’s).
Paid time off for short-term illness and mental wellness, helping you take the time you need when life happens.
Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to encourage giving back to the community.
Paid parental leave to support you and your growing family.
Flexible work arrangements that support a strong work-life balance.
On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives, and prescription support programs designed to make care more accessible and affordable.
On-site fitness center and wellness programs to help you stay active and healthy.
Relaxed dress code so you can feel comfortable and be yourself at work.
Dynamic learning environment with professional development opportunities, mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and leadership programs to support your growth.