Research Specialist I (McHugh)

Rice University•Houston, TX

6h•$46,000 - $52,900•Onsite

About The Position

The McHugh Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University seeks to hire a Research Specialist I laboratory technician to support research focused on the development of novel vaccine and drug delivery platforms. At a high level, the McHugh Lab is focused on the development of translational drug delivery platforms with the potential to address a variety of conditions ranging from prophylaxis for infectious diseases to cancer therapies. This position will support an interdisciplinary research project funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focused on the development of controlled-release vaccine delivery systems. The research aims to enable combination vaccines by using particle-based encapsulation strategies to offset antigen release timing and mitigate immunological interference between co-delivered vaccines. In particular, the project involves encapsulating a next-generation polio vaccine within microparticles fabricated using the Particles Uniformly Liquified and Sealed to Encapsulate Drug (PULSED) platform, in coordination with a soluble vaccine component. Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior lab members, the Research Specialist I will assist with microparticle fabrication, in vitro release studies, biochemical characterization of vaccine stability, and in vivo experimental work, as well as data collection and analysis. The role requires close collaboration with postdoctoral researchers and graduate students and provides hands-on experience in biomaterials-based vaccine delivery within a multidisciplinary academic research environment. More information about the McHugh Lab can be found here: https://mchughlab.rice.edu

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, biology, chemistry, or a related field
1+ years of relevant laboratory experience, including hands-on wet lab work
In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience above and beyond what is required may be substituted on a year-for-year basis
Ability to perform laboratory techniques accurately and reproducibly following written protocols
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Basic data analysis and record-keeping skills
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within a research team
Commitment to laboratory safety and compliance standards

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with biomaterials, drug delivery, or immunology concepts
Experience with assays such as ELISA or other biochemical characterization techniques
Exposure to in vitro or in vivo experimental work
Interest in translational research and vaccine development

Responsibilities

Fabricate and process polymer-based microparticles using established laboratory protocols
Conduct in vitro release studies to evaluate controlled-release vaccine delivery systems
Perform biochemical assays, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), to assess vaccine stability and performance
Assist with in vivo studies in accordance with approved protocols and institutional guidelines
Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data; maintain accurate laboratory records
Prepare reagents, materials, and equipment for experiments; support general laboratory operations
Follow established safety, compliance, and quality control procedures
Collaborate effectively with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and other lab members
Perform other research-related duties as assigned to support ongoing projects