Senior Research Assistant/Associate – Immunology, Virology and Vaccine Development - Military veterans preferred

Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and detail-oriented Senior Research Assistant/Associate to join our research team at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. This full-time position is an excellent opportunity for an experienced individual passionate about advancing vaccine research and development.

Our laboratory focuses on mucosal vaccine research and development, disease prevention, and early-phase disease transmission studies, utilizing the non-human primate (NHP) model. Current research efforts are directed toward developing innovative mucosal vaccine strategies (HIV, HPV/HIV, TB) to prevent or control infection while investigating pathogen-host interactions and correlates of protection.

Key Responsibilities:

• Isolate, prepare, and process biological specimens from NHPs.
• Conduct and optimize scientific experiments related to mucosal vaccines.
• Investigate host immune responses, including cellular and humoral immunity.
• Set up and operate laboratory equipment, contributing to maintenance and calibration.
• Record, compile, and analyze research data while maintaining meticulous documentation.
• Perform standardization and troubleshooting of experimental protocols as needed.
• Assist with database management, freezer inventories, and tissue sample tracking.
• Order laboratory supplies and reagents to ensure smooth operations.
• Participate in laboratory meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Present findings and contribute to the lab's collaborative research environment.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Immunology, or Molecular Virology.
• A minimum of four years of laboratory bench experience.
• Proficiency in immunology techniques (ELISPOT, ELISA, flow cytometry, tissue culture, etc.).
• Experience using basic molecular biology methods (RNA/DNA isolation, RT-PCR) will be a plus.
• Experience working in BSL-2+ and/or BSL-3 environments.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in computer programs (Mac/PC).

Preferred:

· Master's degree in Microbiology, Immunology, or Molecular Virology with at least four years of research experience.

· Expertise in multicolor flow cytometry, neutralizing antibody assays, and immunohistology/imaging.

· Experience in cellular phenotype characterization and advanced immunological techniques.

· Experience using basic molecular biology methods (RNA/DNA isolation, RT-PCR).

· Familiarity with non-human primate (NHP) research is highly desirable.

Our Ideal Candidate Will:

• Demonstrate a strong work ethic and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Exhibit excellent communication skills (both written and spoken) in English.
• Show a commitment to contributing to the lab's vaccine research program for at least three years.
• This position reports directly to Dr. Marie-Claire Gauduin. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter summarizing their research interests, past experience, and laboratory expertise, along with their curriculum vitae.

Who We Are:

Join our incredible mission to pave the way for a world free from the fear of infectious disease!

Texas Biomedical Research Institute is pioneering and sharing scientific research to protect you, your families, and our global community from the threat of infectious diseases. Our scientific discoveries create breakthroughs in medical research to provide better overall global health.

Texas Biomed is the only independent, nonprofit infectious disease research institute in the U.S. to combine:

• The highest-level biocontainment labs for infectious disease and biodefense research
• A federally-designated National Primate Research Center
• More than 80 years of discoveries advancing diagnostics, vaccines and therapies
• An entrepreneurial culture and specialized expertise in regulated science required for FDA approval

What We Can Offer You:

• Employee-centered culture with an emphasis on open communication, job empowerment and trust!
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for your family (and even your pets)!
• An incomparable employer funded retirement plan with 7% retirement funding starting day 1 (and increases upon years of service)!
• Generous paid time off, with 14 paid holidays including Winter Recess (paid week off the last week of December)
• On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives & paid prescription drug resources to promote health management!
• On-site gym & wellness programs!
• Flexible work arrangements for work-life balance!
• Dynamic learning environment with opportunities for professional development, mentorship, continuing education (tuition reimbursement) and leadership programs to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

We take pride in fostering a culture of respect, opportunity, and unity. Texas Biomedical Research Institute provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.

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