Research Assistant - Microbiology and Immunology (Perlman Lab)

University of Iowa • Iowa City, IA

3d

About The Position

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant (RA) to join the laboratory of Dr. Stanley Perlman. The RA will contribute to ongoing research projects in a dynamic, collaborative environment focused on coronavirus–host interactions. The laboratory addresses interdisciplinary questions at the interface of virology, immunology, and neuroscience, using both in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches. This position offers extensive hands-on experience with modern laboratory techniques, data analysis, and experimental design, and provides the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to basic and translational biomedical research. Responsibilities include caring for and managing animal colonies, performing cell culture work, and executing experimental procedures under guidance. The RA will receive individualized mentorship, including advice on experimental design, data analysis, and career development. The role is well-suited for individuals who are intellectually curious, detail-oriented, and motivated to engage in scientific discovery.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry or Biology, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum of 6 months total experience in laboratory research.
• Minimally familiar with, but ideally experience with molecular biology techniques such as cell culture, safe handling of pathogens, PCR, gel electrophoresis, plaque assays, flow cytometry, IHC and other microbiological/immunological methods)PCR, restriction digest, DNA ligation, bacterial transformation.
• Previous experience handling animals.
• Gathering, recording, and analyzing experimental data.
• Ability to effectively prioritize projects and consistently meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with handling laboratory animals and animal husbandry/maintenance of mouse breeding colonies.
• Previous work experience with animal models of infectious diseases.
• Previous experience with performing invivo mouse experiments.
• Experience using data analysis skills for Python, R/R studio, GraphPad PRISM, Flow Jo or other software
• Experience working in a virology or immunology laboratory or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and manage mouse colonies, including routine care, health monitoring, and coordination with experimental needs, in compliance with approved animal care and use protocols.
• Contribute to active research projects by performing experiments using protocols developed by senior research staff or the principal investigator. Read and review articles as directed. As skills and experience grow, critically evaluate published studies and contribute to hypothesis development and experimental planning in collaboration with other researchers and the principal investigator.
• Conduct in vivo infectious disease research using mouse models infected with pathogenic human and murine coronaviruses.
• Organize and plan daily laboratory activities to ensure efficient preparation and execution of research procedures.
• Perform experimental procedures in BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratory environments, ensuring adherence to biosafety and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in mouse necropsies and tissue dissections following approved protocols.
• Perform basic virological and immunological experiments, including virus growth curves, plaque assays and ELISAs.
• Carry out routine cell culture and related laboratory techniques.
• Prepare chemical solutions, buffers, and media according to established protocols, including proper handling, labeling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and solvents.
• As skills and experience develop, assist with troubleshooting, propose modifications or optimizations to protocols, perform more complex techniques, evaluate existing procedures and contribute to methods for monitoring data integrity.
• Collect, record, consolidate, and organize experimental data as directed by the Principal Investigator.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, databases, and documentation (e.g., reagents, microbial strains and stocks, animals, equipment, and supplies).
• Track progress of research activities in a laboratory notebook.
• Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment, including timely ordering, receiving, and proper storage.
• Assist with documentation to ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and institutional requirements, including required training and certifications.
• Assist with occasional shipping of research reagents.
• Assist in maintaining general laboratory functionality and a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment.
• Assist with the procurement of supplies and materials.
• May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures, and reconcile statements.
• May train, provide directions, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of students and newer employees.

Benefits

• Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees