Research Technician II, Immunology

UT Southwestern Medical Center • Dallas, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Hooper Lab at UT Southwestern is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician II to support cutting-edge research focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern intestinal host-microbial interactions. Our research investigates how bacteria and the intestinal epithelium communicate, using advanced gnotobiotic (germ-free) mouse models and molecular biology techniques to study the complex relationships between the gut microbiota and host health. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative biomedical research in a collaborative laboratory environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining germ-free mouse colonies, supporting animal husbandry activities within a specialized gnotobiotic facility, monitoring colony sterility, conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and processing samples, and assisting with molecular and microbiological analyses. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences or a related life sciences field, strong attention to detail, and a willingness to work extensively with laboratory mice. Previous experience with animal handling, research laboratory procedures, or microbiology is preferred but not required. Candidates should be organized, dependable, and eager to contribute to research that advances our understanding of the microbiome and its impact on human health.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree With major coursework in field of assignment and no experience or Two (2) years of college with emphasis in coursework in field of assignment or High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• No experience required with Bachelor's Degree or 2 years of laboratory experience at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent with two (2) years of college or 4 years of laboratory experience including two years at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent with High School Graduation or GED equivalent

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences, Genetics, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Interest in microbiome, immunology, microbiology, or translational biomedical research.
• Willingness to work extensively with mice and learn specialized gnotobiotic techniques.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research setting.
• Previous experience with animal handling, research laboratory procedures, or microbiology is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and monitor germ-free mouse colonies in a gnotobiotic facility.
• Perform routine animal husbandry and handling procedures.
• Assist with sterility testing and contamination monitoring of mouse colonies.
• Assist with microbiological, molecular, and cell biology experiments.
• Support ongoing research projects studying host-microbe interactions within the gastrointestinal tract.
• Follow established protocols and safety procedures for animal and laboratory research.
• Performs routine scientific and medical research work in science area such as biology, chemistry, physics, or other related scientific field.
• Assembles and/or operates various laboratory equipment and apparatus.
• Records research data in accordance with prescribed procedures, discussing results with supervisor.
• Assists in collection of data for project reports.
• Reads literature and confers with supervisor concerning implementation of new procedures.
• May plan for, and provide working supervision to, work of laboratory personnel of lower grade engaged in limited phase of research project.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
• 100%25 coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
• Paid Time Off, available day one
• Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
• Paid Parental Leave Benefit
• Wellness programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
• healthcare
• PTO and paid holidays
• on-site childcare
• wage, merit increases

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED