Research Assistant / Associate – Sharan Lab at Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas

Job Description:

The Sharan Lab at Texas Biomedical Research Institute is looking to hire an enthusiastic, responsible and skilled full-time Research Assistant or Research Associate. The candidate will work closely with the PI to conduct experimental projects on Tuberculosis and HIV/SIV pathogenesis in a mouse and nonhuman primate model (NHP) in the BSL3 high containment and BSL2 laboratory. The candidate is expected to keep abreast of the techniques and methods being employed in the lab, perform protocol standardizations if needed. The candidate will collect, prepare and report the results of the experiment and may provide supervision and guidance to junior technicians as needed.

The Role:

• Collects, prepares, analyzes and evaluates specimens from mice and NHPs.
• Processes blood for PBMC collection and bronchoalveolar lavage samples from mice and NHPs.
• Prepares drug dosages for treatment of mice and NHPs.
• Operates laboratory equipment, contributes to laboratory maintenance.
• Orders lab supplies, keeps inventory of samples and reagents.
• Assists in small animal surgery and necropsies.
• Prepares media plates, counts bacterial CFUs.
• Participates in training sessions and workshops as needed.
• Prepares for animal necropsies: labelling of tubes, coordination with BSL3 staff and veterinarians.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• A bachelor's degree or higher in biology, biomedical sciences.
• 1 -2 years' experience in working with NHPs or small animal model in BSL3 lab setting.
• 1 – 2 years' experience in standard lab techniques such as preparation of PBMCs from blood, processing animal tissues, preparation of growth media, autoclaving reagents.
• Flow cytometry experience is not a must but highly desirable.
• At least 2 years' experience of working in a research laboratory.
• Strong leadership and team work qualities.
• Good communication skills.
• Commitment to the program for at least 2 years.

In addition to applying on our career site, interested applicants should attach a cover letter summarizing research interests in our lab and past research experience.

Potential Hazards:

• Working with nonhuman primate samples, including body fluids infected with Mtb and HIV.
• Working with infectious bacteria in BSL-3 biocontainment.

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. The Southwest National Primate Research Center (SNPRC) provides broad services in primate research. We are one of seven National Primate Research Centers (NPRCs) with specialized technologies, capabilities and primate resources, many of which are unique to the SNPRC.

What We Can Offer You:

· Competitive pay

· 7% Employer-Funded retirement contribution starting day one

· Full insurance benefits

· Holidays, PTO and a paid week off in the last week of December

· Onsite Gym & Clinic!

· We are proud of our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging!

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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