Research Specialist

Research Technician

The Influenza Research Institute (IRI), part of the University of Wisconsin and located in University Research Park, focuses on RNA viruses, including highly pathogenic influenza viruses, coronaviruses, and ebolaviruses. Our mission is to better understand viral virulence, pathogenesis, and evolution. Through this research, we aim to develop improved vaccines, antiviral therapies, and other strategies to prevent, control, and ultimately eliminate viral infections.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to join our team studying emerging and zoonotic RNA viruses. The successful candidate will contribute to a variety of research projects involving mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, animal studies, and biochemical and cell-based assays to investigate virus–host interactions. Specific responsibilities will include maintaining cell lines, constructing and validating expression plasmids, performing protein expression analyses, conducting assays to characterize protein–protein interactions, and assisting with animal experiments in accordance with approved protocols.

Additional duties may include data analysis, laboratory organization, reagent preparation, and support of ongoing research activities within the laboratory.

• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders.
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results.

School of Veterinary Medicine

Department of Pathobiological Sciences

Influenza Research Institute

Minimum $45,879. Actual salary will depend on experience and qualifications.

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. A criminal background check will be conducted prior to hiring. The ability to obtain and maintain Select Agent clearance is required for this position as well as required training, vaccinations and occupational health testing. This position may require occasional after-hours and weekend hours based on experimental schedule.

Prior experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, animal handling and experimentation, and protein analysis methods is strongly desired. Experience working in a research laboratory environment and familiarity with virology, immunology, or infectious disease research are advantageous.

Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field is required; a master's degree is highly preferred.

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.