Research Scientist

Research Scientist

Texas A&M Agri Life is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:

• Texas A&M Agri Life Extension Service
• Texas A&M Agri Life Research
• College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University
• Texas A&M Forest Service
• Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

As the nation's largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M Agri Life brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M Agri Life is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.

We are seeking a Research Scientist who is responsible for conducting complex independent research to advance the understanding of antiviral RNA interference (RNAi) and immune pathways in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, supporting the development of innovative strategies to reduce arbovirus transmission and improve vector control. The position applies advanced scientific expertise in molecular biology, virology, genetics, and vector biology to design, execute, analyze, and interpret multidisciplinary research studies in collaboration with internal and external investigators.

The Research Scientist contributes to scientific publications, technical reports, and grant-related activities while fostering a collaborative research environment through mentorship and effective communication of research findings. This position requires a high level of scientific independence, analytical expertise, and the ability to manage complex research activities in support of program objectives and sponsored research initiatives.

* Conduct Independent Research

- Conduct complex, independent research focused on the molecular mechanisms of antiviral RNA interference (RNAi), innate immune pathways, and host-pathogen interactions in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

-Design, execute, and optimize experimental approaches using molecular biology, virology, genetics, genome editing, and other advanced laboratory techniques.

-Analyze and interpret experimental data to advance project objectives related to mosquito immunity, antiviral defense, infection tolerance, and novel genetic vector control strategies.

-Maintain accurate research records and ensure compliance with university, sponsor, and biosafety requirements.

* Data Analysis, Scientific Communication, and Sponsored Research

-Analyze research findings using appropriate statistical and bioinformatics methods.

-Prepare manuscripts, abstracts, technical reports, presentations, and other scholarly products for publication and dissemination.

-Contribute to progress reports, grant proposals, and other sponsor-required documentation supporting ongoing and future research activities.

-Present research findings at laboratory meetings, scientific conferences, and sponsor meetings.

* Collaboration, Mentorship, and Laboratory Operations

-Collaborate with principal investigators, faculty, postdoctoral researchers, students, and external collaborators on multidisciplinary research projects.

-Mentor and provide scientific guidance to graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and laboratory personnel.

-Assist with laboratory organization, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and procurement of research supplies to ensure efficient laboratory operations.

* Research Program Support and Compliance

-Assist with planning and implementation of research activities to achieve project milestones and sponsor objectives.

-Ensure research activities comply with institutional policies, biosafety procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.

-Support implementation of new research methodologies and continuous improvement of laboratory procedures.

* Performs Other Duties as Assigned

-Perform other duties as assigned in support of departmental, college, and sponsored research program needs.

Required

Education:

-Ph.D. in Virology, Microbiology, Immunology, Vector Biology, Entomology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, or a closely related life sciences field.

Preferred Education:

-Postdoctoral training in molecular virology, vector biology, immunology, genetics, or a related biomedical research discipline.

Specialized training and demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Mosquito vector biology (Aedes aegypti preferred) Arbovirology (e.g., dengue, Zika, chikungunya, or related viruses) RNA interference (RNAi) and innate immune signaling CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and transgenic insect technologies Molecular genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, or bioinformatics Advanced molecular biology and cell culture techniques

Required Experience:

-Six (6) years of related research experience in molecular biology, virology, immunology, genetics, entomology, vector biology, or a closely related field (may include postdoctoral research experience). Demonstrated…