Researcher I or II

Job Summary

This position is a key member of an immunology research team focused on investigating the biology and function of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and leveraging their unique properties to develop novel immunotherapies. The role supports research efforts within the Gumperz lab and contributes to collaborative projects examining Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) pathogenesis and the development of immune resistant cells for pancreatic islet transplantation.

The successful candidate will participate in the design and execution of rigorous laboratory experiments, contribute to data analysis and interpretation, and support day‑today research activities. This position requires strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, a solid understanding of experimental design principles, and enthusiasm for hands‑on research and mentoring undergraduate trainees in a collaborative laboratory environment.

• This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.
• This position has been identified as a position of trust with access to vulnerable populations. The selected candidate will be required to pass an initial caregiver check to be eligible for employment under the Wisconsin Caregiver Law and every four years. Applicants for this position will be considered for the following titles Researcher I and Researcher II. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist.
• This vacancy is being announced simultaneously with job posting JR; please note that only one vacancy exists. Having two position vacancy listings allows the School of Medicine and Public Health to consider candidates with a variety of experience and qualifications.

Isolate and culture primary mammalian cells, and other cell lines to support laboratory experiments and collaborative efforts; generate preparations of antigens; generate stocks of purified and/or labeled monoclonal antibodies, recombinant fusion proteins, and other "in‑house" laboratory reagents.

Troubleshoot and solve problems related to research techniques and protocols used in the lab.

Carry out duties related to maintenance of mice for experimental use, including management/oversight of ordering, breeding, and experimental colonies.

Supervise undergraduate student hourly workers and mentor undergraduates performing independent research projects in the lab.

Conduct independent laboratory research under the guidance of the PI.

Carry out duties related to laboratory management (e.g. oversight and ordering of supplies, maintenance of equipment and laboratory stocks, coordination of scheduling related to use of equipment and lab space, training others on use of equipment as needed).

Assist in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.

The mission of the Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology is to provide comprehensive scientific instruction to students, conduct novel and meaningful research, and offer consultation and service in microbiology and immunology as they relate to human health and disease.

The starting salary for this position is $47,000; but is negotiable based on experiences and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

• SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

• At least 6 years hands‑on laboratory research experience in immunology or a related biological science discipline.
• Experience isolating, culturing, and analyzing primary human immune cells (T cells and/or NK cells required; experience with monocytes, macrophages, or dendritic cells a plus).
• Proficiency performing common immunoassays (e.g., ELISA, ELISpot, cytotoxicity, lymphocyte proliferation).
• Experience working with murine models, including basic in vivo procedures and support of mouse colony maintenance (breeding, genotyping, husbandry).
• Experience analyzing flow cytometry data using Flow Jo or…