Research Technician

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Job Category:

University Staff

Employment Type:

Terminal (Fixed Term)

Job Profile:

Research Technician

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Research Technician to join the Dillard Lab and perform research for a new study on the role of peptidoglycan fragment release and the NOD2 response elicited by the bacterial pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae resulting in pelvic inflammatory disease. The functions of the enzyme NlpC will be determined and its mechanisms involved in activating NOD2 responses in human epithelial cells, cervix tissue explants, and Fallopian tube explants in will be identified.

The successful candidate will work alongside a PhD scientist to produce peptidoglycan substrates, analyze enzyme products by HPLC, and measure inflammatory responses from human cells and tissue. Responsibilities include purifying enzymes, preparing bacterial samples for super-resolution microscopy, measuring cytokine levels, and creating mutation constructs in

E. coli and mutant Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains. While many of the techniques are already used by the lab, this person will work with a PhD scientist to create and validate assays designed to quantify inflammatory responses in tissue. Scientific work will be performed under the guidance of the PhD scientist and principal investigator.

The successful candidate will also need to demonstrate effective scientific decision-making skills, a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical background of the project and develop and implement novel techniques independently under the supervision of the principal investigator.

In addition to bench and method-development work, the research technician will contribute to data analysis and manuscript preparation, and will maintain rigorous records and documentation.

Regular work with human tissues is expected. Because communication is an essential part of the scientific enterprise, outstanding written and verbal scientific communication skills are essential.

This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location. The work schedule is flexible and will be determined at time of hire.

This position has the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding.

Key

Job Responsibilities:

* Reviews data to summarize results for presentations or reporting

* Inspects and maintains equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces

* Collects data and monitors test results according to established research requirements and specifications

* May assist with literature reviews and/or report writing

* Performs lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications. Performs lab or field tests

Department:

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Dillard Lab

The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology is dedicated to impactful research, and medical and graduate student teaching, and service to the public and scientific fields in the areas of immunology and infectious diseases. We emphasize a healthy work-life balance and provide a supportive work environment committed to the growth and advancement of our members.

Compensation:

The expected salary range for this position is $40,000 up to $45,000 for highly experienced candidates and actual pay within this range will depend on experience 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 University Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

Preferred Qualifications:

* One year previous laboratory research experience, beyond laboratory class exercises.

* Experience using molecular biology techniques including PCR and cloning and sequencing of DNA.

* Experience with bacterial growth or genetics.

* Ability to graph data in Excel or Prism and perform statistical analyses.

Education:

Bachelor's Degree Required, preferably in biology or chemistry related field.

How to Apply:

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* Cover letter required

* Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience aligns with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward…