Research Associate - Military veterans preferred

Description:

Research Associate

The Kulkarni Lab at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, TX, is searching for an enthusiastic, organized, and skilled full-time Research Associate. The candidate will employ cutting edge techniques to understand the role non-coding RNAs and therapeutic targeting of RNA in infectious diseases. These studies are likely to discover novel gene regulatory pathways and specific molecular candidates for targeted therapy. The growing Texas Biomed campus provides a vibrant and diverse scientific community and multiple opportunities for training and career advancement.

The Role:

Research (80%)

• Plan and execute studies under the supervision of the Principal Investigators/Post-doctoral scientist.
• Plan and perform experiments involving infectious agents (at BSL-2) in various human cell lines and primary cells.
• Plan and perform assays utilizing standard molecular techniques (CRISPR, cloning, cell transfection, DNA/ RNA extraction & analysis, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE, reverse transcription, quantitative PCR; Western blot, luciferase assays, RNA immunoprecipitation, and sequencing).
• Plan and perform in-vitro and ex-vivo cell-based assays, including cell culture, production of lentiviral particles, transduction, RT-PCR, and flow cytometry.
• Record all details of protocols and data in laboratory notebooks and electronic data folders.
• Occasional after-hours or weekend wet lab work will be necessary.
• Ensure quality control of equipment, reagents, and cellular components.
• Participation in scientific communication (writing scientific articles and presenting at local/national meetings) is highly encouraged.

General Labs Maintenance (20%)

• Ordering and inventory laboratory supplies and maintaining reagent/sample logs.
• Ensure the biosafety standards of the Institute are observed in lab procedures.
• Preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment ( in collaboration with the Research Operations group).

Our Ideal Candidate will have the following:

• a Master's degree or higher in Molecular biology, virology, genetics, or related fields.
• 1-2 years experience with molecular biology/virology in a BSL-2 laboratory setting.
• 1 – 2 years experience in standard techniques (mammalian cell culture, cloning, DNA/ RNA extraction, plasmid purification & analysis, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE; Western blot, Quantitative PCR).

Additional Skills Desired:

• Laboratory experience: Competency and experience in BSL-2 work practices.
• Immunology: Experience basic immunology techniques such as cell isolation and culture, flow cytometry, and cell separation techniques.
• Microbiology: Cultivation of viral and bacterial strains under BSL-2 conditions.
• Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, GraphPad Prism, and/or other software programs.
• Interpersonal Skills: Good organizational skills, meticulous note-taking, excellent documentation skills, and keen attention to detail.
• Teamwork: Ability to participate in diverse projects and perform as a team member.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

The employee will work with tissue, blood, cultures, or animals containing, or potentially containing, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cell culture lines infected with human or animal pathogens (other than HIV or Herpes B virus). They will work in a BSL2 laboratory with recombinant DNA/RNA and infectious agents. Safety training, equipment, clothing, and supplies will be provided. Participation in a medical monitoring and surveillance program is required.

WHO WE ARE:

Texas Biomedical Research Institute is one of the world's leading independent biomedical research institutions dedicated to advancing global human health through innovative biomedical research. Texas Biomed aims to unravel the mysteries of infectious diseases through innovative thinking, creative problem-solving, and cutting-edge technologies.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU:

• Competitive pay
• 7% Employer-Funded retirement contribution starting day one
• Full insurance benefits
• Holidays, PTO, and a week off for the last week of December
• We are proud of our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging!

** All new hires must present proof of an up-to-date COVID-19 immunization record to include booster(s), if eligible.

Texas Biomedical Research Institute provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.

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