Research Associate II, Microbiology And Immunology (Galveston)

UTMB Health • Galveston, TX

2d

About The Position

The Research Associate II performs routine and non-routine research assignments and experiments and assists with laboratory maintenance. Under general supervision, the role conducts research of moderate complexity, including in vitro virus culture, virology and serology assays, and assistance with small animal studies evaluating novel antiviral therapies and vaccines. The position plans and coordinates standard experiments, prepares biological assays, analyzes results, maintains records, and supports data compilation and interpretation. It also helps ensure laboratory equipment is properly assembled, calibrated, operated, and modified; maintains laboratory inventory and safety compliance; and performs literature searches. The successful applicant must be able to meet medical and vaccination requirements for work in biocontainment facilities and with Tier 1 select agents, as well as State and Federal requirements for DOJ clearance to access select-agent areas. The standard work environment is a laboratory, with the possibility of future work in BSL-3 and BSL-4 facilities after appropriate training. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in basic science or equivalent and two years of related experience, or a master's degree in basic science or equivalent with no experience required.
• Must be able to meet medical and/or vaccination requirements for work in biocontainment facilities and with Tier 1 select agents.
• Must meet State and Federal requirements necessary for DOJ clearance to access select-agent areas.
• Skills include animal science and care, surgery, biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis, data analysis, data tabulation, equipment calibration, technical writing, and use of standard laboratory equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience with mammalian cell culture, virus stock production, and virological or serological assays such as plaque assay, TCID50 assay, ELISA, or PRNT.
• Hands-on experience with small animal models, including administration of materials, collection of biosamples, and animal colony management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in vitro virus culture and virology and serology assays.
• Assist with small animal studies evaluating novel antiviral therapies and vaccines.
• Perform routine and non-routine research assignments and experiments of moderate complexity under general supervision.
• Plan, coordinate, set up, and conduct standard research experiments following general technical instructions.
• Prepare biological assays and conduct quantitative and qualitative analyses.
• Modify research procedures as determined by the Principal Investigator.
• Maintain records of tests performed and data collected, and provide preliminary analysis of results.
• Assist with compilation and tabulation of data and analysis of final data.
• Ensure accurate assembly, calibration, operation, and modification of laboratory equipment according to applicable guidelines.
• Maintain the laboratory for animal and environmental safety compliance.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Perform literature searches as outlined by the Principal Investigator.
• Provide guidance to junior research staff as needed.
• Adhere to internal controls established for the department and perform related duties as required.

What This Job Offers

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