Research Engineering​/Scientist Associate

Research Engineering/ Scientist Associate I

Hiring Department: Molecular Biosciences

Position Open To: All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

FLSA Status: Exempt from FLSA

Earliest

Start Date:

Immediately

Position Duration: Expected to Continue Until Jun 09, 2027

Location: Austin, TX

Purpose:

The position supports multiple research projects in the McLellan Lab via administrative oversight and cell‑culture and protein expression. The lab uses advanced structural biology techniques to understand the nature and function of viral and bacterial proteins in support of vaccine and therapeutic development. It involves mammalian cell culture production and protein expression, as well as inventory management, shipping and receiving, reporting and other administrative tasks.

• Perform mammalian cell culture experiments, including maintenance and transient transfections, producing proteins for structural biology and vaccine design; maintain the cell culture room and reagents for high‑throughput transfections.
• Conduct molecular biology experiments such as DNA cloning, site‑directed mutagenesis, plasmid preparations, and protein purification and characterization.
• Coordinate lab clean‑ups, manage electronic databases for plasmids and strains, attend weekly group meetings and journal clubs, and gather information for annual Environmental Health and Safety reporting.
• Place and receive material/supply orders, maintain inventory, and ship/receive packages on behalf of the lab.

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Working knowledge and deep understanding of molecular biology techniques.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture production.
• Strong time‑management and organizational skills.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Minimum of one year of research experience in an academic or industry lab.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

• Minimum of one year of research experience in lab management or organization.
• Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Salary Range: $45,000 + depending on qualifications

• Personal protective equipment furnished.
• May work around chemical fumes.
• May work under standard office conditions.
• May work around biohazards.
• May work around chemicals.

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin is an equal‑opportunity/affirmative action employer, complying with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.