Research Technician III; McHugh

Research Technician II

The McHugh Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University seeks to hire a Research Technician II to support research focused on the development of translational vaccine and drug delivery platforms. The lab's work integrates biomaterials design, advanced manufacturing techniques, and immunoengineering to develop delivery systems for applications ranging from infectious disease prophylaxis to cancer therapeutics.

This position will support an interdisciplinary research project funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focused on developing controlled-release vaccine delivery systems to enable combination vaccines. The research involves fabricating microparticle-based delivery platforms designed to modulate antigen release timing and reduce immunological interference between co-delivered vaccines, including the encapsulation of a next-generation polio vaccine using the Particles Uniformly Liquified and Sealed to Encapsulate Drug (PULSED) platform.

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator and senior research staff, the Research Technician II will independently perform a range of laboratory techniques, support in vitro and in vivo studies, analyze experimental data, and assist with optimizing and troubleshooting established protocols. The role requires close collaboration with postdoctoral researchers and graduate students and contributes directly to the execution of ongoing sponsored research activities.

Ideal Candidate Statement:
The ideal candidate has prior laboratory research experience and is comfortable independently performing wet lab–based experimental work in a structured research environment. They are detail-oriented, reliable, and capable of executing established protocols while identifying and resolving routine technical issues. The successful candidate works well in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team and is motivated to contribute to translational research focused on vaccine development and global health applications.

Workplace Requirements:
This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in person. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range: $19.74 – $22.69
* Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime. This position is a one-year appointment funded by grant, soft, and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on satisfactory performance and renewal of funding.

Minimum Requirements:

• Associate degree in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, biology, chemistry, or a related field
• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
• 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience, including hands-on wet lab work
• In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted

Skills :

• Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite)
• Proficiency in laboratory research skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, including accurate documentation of experimental data
• Ability to listen and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team
• Ability to collect, evaluate, and analyze experimental data
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and infection control standards in a laboratory environment

Preferences:

• Two or more years of relevant laboratory or research experience
• Prior experience performing wet lab–based experimental work, particularly in biomaterials or immunology-related research
• Experience with biochemical assays such as ELISA
• Familiarity with controlled-release systems, microparticle fabrication, or drug/vaccine delivery research
• Experience supporting in vitro and/or in vivo experimental studies

Essential Functions:

• Assist in conducting laboratory research and experiments supporting vaccine and drug delivery research projects
• Fabricate and process microparticle-based delivery systems using…