Research Engineering​/Scientist Assistant I

Job Posting Title

Research Engineering/Scientist Assistant I

Research Engineering/Scientist Assistant I

Dell Medical School

All Applicants

40

Exempt from FLSA

Immediately

Expected to Continue Until Feb 28, 2031

AUSTIN, TX

General Notes The Sabharwal Lab (PI: Dr. Ankit Sabharwal) at the Department of Pediatrics at the Dell Medical School is looking for Research Engineering/Scientist Assistant I. This position will end effective one year from start date. Subsequent annual renewal of employment will be based upon performance review, progress towards research goals, and continuation of funding.

The Sabharwal laboratory (Mito Dynamics lab) at the Dell Pediatric Research Institute studies mitochondrial biology and rare mitochondrial diseases using zebrafish as a model organism. We are looking for a Research Engineering/Scientist Assistant I to conduct biological research under the supervision of the PI. Work will span molecular biology, genomics, and zebrafish genetics, with a focus on mitochondrial DNA biology and gene editing.

The new member will also be expected to contribute to general laboratory administration and maintenance. The Research Engineering/Scientist Assistant I is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of experimental results, contributing to research publications, and assisting in the development of new research protocols.

• Collaboration and Communication:
  Collaborate with research team members, participate actively in lab meetings and discussions, and present research progress and findings. Opportunities to present at scientific conferences may be available.
• Data Collection and Analysis:
  Record experimental data accurately and assist in data analysis using relevant software tools and statistical methods. Work lab members and students to interpret and communicate findings effectively. Assist in interpretation and preparation of results for publications and presentations.
• Lab and Equipment Maintenance:
  Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and instruments and assist with inventory management of laboratory supplies including ordering.
• Laboratory Experiments:
  Perform molecular, gene editing, and genomics techniques related to mitochondrial biology and metabolism, including tissue sample preparation, cell culture, molecular biology assays, and microscopy.
• Maintain zebrafish colonies in the aquatics facility and support genotyping and breeding operations. Maintain laboratory equipment, manage reagent inventory, and ensure compliance with safety and IACUC protocols.
• Attend weekly lab meetings and report on research progress. Contribute to manuscript preparation, grant support, and onboarding of new lab members as needed.

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related scientific field. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

• Prior laboratory research experience in molecular biology
• Experience with bioinformatic tools for genomics data analysis
• Familiarity with zebrafish or another genetic model organism

$43,000 + depending on qualifications

• Standard office equipment
• Repetitive use of a keyboard
• Work in aquatics facility required
• May work around biohazards
• May work around chemicals

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies 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.

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they…