Research Associate I

University of Arkansas System • Little Rock, AR

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a unique combination of education, research, and clinical programs that encourages and supports teamwork and diversity. We champion being a collaborative health care organization, focused on improving patient care and the lives of Arkansans. The Research Associate I will work collaboratively within the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, supporting studies on host responses to infectious diseases. The role includes performing molecular biology, virology, and cell biology techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, real-time PCR, protein purification, cloning, Western blotting, ELISA, and tissue culture, with additional responsibilities in infection studies and virus purification following training. The position also involves animal research activities, including handling, injections, blood collection, and tissue processing and analysis. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, sound scientific reasoning, and the ability to analyze data and effectively present findings to the Principal Investigator and laboratory team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree plus four (4) years of research lab experience or Master's degree plus three (3) years of research lab experience required.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Previous experience in experimental systems related to mutagenesis, homologous/non-homologous recombination, and deaminase activities.
• Ability to be reasonably active and on their feet for approximately 80% of the day.
• Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D degree in biology plus one (1) year of molecular biology research lab experience.
• Basic molecular biology, aseptic tissue culture, and flow cytometry.

Responsibilities

• Participate in research projects by conducting experiments with input and supervision from the PI.
• Assist the PI with protocol building and submission/approval (e.g., IACUC and IBC).
• Responsible for general lab management such as keeping lab inventories, SOPs, placing orders, lab maintenance, and staff training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Performing molecular biology, virology, and cell biology techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, real-time PCR, protein purification, cloning, Western blotting, ELISA, and tissue culture.
• Additional responsibilities in infection studies and virus purification following training.
• Animal research activities, including handling, injections, blood collection, and tissue processing and analysis.

Benefits

• Health: Medical, Dental and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and family
• Holiday, Vacation and Sick Leave
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only)
• Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMS
• Basic Life Insurance up to $50,000
• Career Training and Educational Opportunities
• Merchant Discounts
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using UAMS pharmacy

What This Job Offers

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