Research Assistant II

Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Nashville, TN

3d • Onsite

About The Position

A laboratory in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center is seeking a Research Assistant II (RAII) to join their team. This role involves supporting day-to-day laboratory operations and contributing to ongoing research projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. The RAII will conduct experiments under moderate supervision, follow established protocols, and ensure accurate documentation and reporting of results. The position is part of the Vanderbilt Center for Antibody Therapeutics (VCAT), focusing on antibody discovery and translational research, particularly in immunology and virology, using computational and structure-based design approaches to develop new vaccine and antibody candidates.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience)
• 2 years of experience in molecular biology
• Strong organization
• Attention to detail
• Ability to communicate clearly
• Ability to work effectively as part of a dynamic research team

Nice To Haves

• Experience with plasmid preparation, cloning, DNA mutagenesis, and cultured mammalian cells

Responsibilities

• Set up and conduct experiments
• Follow established protocols
• Ensure accurate documentation and reporting of results
• Culturing cells (eukaryotic and prokaryotic)
• Performing molecular biology techniques such as transformations, DNA preparation, PCR, and sequence analysis
• Expressing and purifying proteins
• Performing flow cytometry
• Preparing common reagents and solutions
• Supporting routine maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Managing inventory of reagents and supplies
• Assisting with other laboratory and research activities as needed
• Conduct and evaluate experiments and assays
• Understand and follow experimental protocols (may include animal handling, tissue culture, etc.)
• Record, compile, interpret, and communicate data/results
• Follow University safety protocols (may include use of combustibles, radioactivity, toxic material, and/or carcinogens)
• Perform calculations involving molarity, % solutions, and serial dilutions
• Prepare, operate, and troubleshoot equipment in experimental procedures
• Read and follow all equipment manuals
• Maintain and repair equipment according to manufacturer and University guidelines
• Ensure Laboratory is prepared for experiments
• Maintain inventories
• Maintain sterile conditions as required
• Prepare reagents
• Demonstrate an understanding of acceptable procedures and techniques
• Recognize problems and suggest solutions
• Assist in modifications as directed
• Provide appropriate written documentation of experiments
• Prepare preliminary research progress reports
• Summarize test results appropriately

Benefits

• health
• disability
• retirement
• wellness offerings

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level