Research Technician

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The faculty in MBM are united by a common interest in the biology of microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) and the effects of microbes on human and animal hosts. The microbial pathogens program studies microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, with emphasis on rigorous analysis of these pathogens and the immune responses that restrict them. Program investigators direct detailed studies of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and eukaryotic parasites.

Research topics include structural analysis of virus entry, viral evolution, viral oncogenes, intracellular bacterial pathogens, microorganisms that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, intracellular signaling, pathogen adhesion, genetic determinants involved in susceptibility to infection, vaccine development, and identification of novel antimicrobial agents.

Major functions of this position: conduct experiments and organize the laboratory.

Duties will include: use of murine models of oropharyngeal candidiasis and of voluntary ethanol consumption to study effects of fungi on oral disease and murine drinking behavior, isolation of

C. albicans strains from human specimens, analysis of fungal and host gene expression, ordering supplies, maintaining required paperwork to ensure regulatory compliance. Past technicians have been co‑authors on publications from the laboratory. The successful candidate must be personable, extremely well‑organized, and have a BA or BS in a scientific discipline. Training will be provided for the techniques required to conduct the research project.

• Perform studies of
  
  C. albicans in mice:
  • handle mice
  • inoculate mice with microorganisms
  • evaluate outcome of inoculation
  • keep accurate records of experiments and results
• Culture
  
  C. albicans strains from human specimens:
  • plate on selective media
  • characterize phenotypes
• Analyze gene expression
  • RNA extraction from tissue or laboratory culture
  • measure expression by RT qPCR
• Manage the laboratory, including:
  • order supplies and maintain inventory
  • maintain laboratory equipment for optimal productivity
  • perform assigned lab maintenance duties on a regular basis
• This description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired through Bachelor’s degree in a Biological science or Chemistry, with up to one year of laboratory experience.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office and PRISM software.
• Must be able to fluently communicate, read, and write in the English language.
• Self‑motivation, consistent attention to detail, and excellent organizational, communication, and time‑management skills.

• Previous experience with animal modeling, working with microbiology and/or molecular biology are preferred but not required.

Minimum $20.50, Midpoint $24.40, Maximum $28.30. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.

Entry level

Full‑time

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
• Industries:
  Higher Education