Research Specialist-Pediatrics

Academic Staff

Regular

Research Specialist

The Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, is seeking a Research Specialist to join the Williams Lab. The Williams Lab studies human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a leading cause of respiratory illness in children. We strive for a collegial and kind work environment. Our goal is to advance knowledge relevant to human health while fostering the professional growth and development of research team members.

Ideal candidates will be skilled in techniques used to investigate viral pathogenesis including standard tools of molecular biology, virology, and immunology.

The research specialist will be studying immunopathogenesis of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). This will chiefly involve work using a mouse model of infection. The research specialist will be investigating how various elements of immunity, including epithelial cells and T cells, regulate the host response to HMPV. The research includes studies of the role specific HMPV proteins play in pathogenesis using epithelial cell culture models and mouse models.

This position will involve experimental skills of mouse handling; administration of viral infection to mice; analysis of mouse immune cell populations by antibody staining for surface makers; preparation and analysis of immune cell populations by flow cytometry; and utilization of cell analysis software such as Flow Jo. Additionally, analysis of virus-specific antibody responses using ELISA, microneutralization, etc. will be required. For work studying the role of viral proteins in pathogenesis, position will include facility of gene cloning, viral culture, and biochemical analysis of gene products through western blotting, and mouse skills as described above.

• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders

• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers

• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences

• Performs literature reviews and writes reports

• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results

• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases

The Department of Pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health is a vibrant academic department comprising more than 230 faculty members in 16 subspecialty divisions. The department promotes and enhances the health of children through outstanding clinical care, exemplary education of pediatric trainees, performance of cutting-edge research, and vigorous advocacy. Our faculty and research staff enjoy a robust infrastructure of services as well as the opportunity to contribute to our world-class research portfolio – since 2015 the department has ranked among the Top 20 pediatrics departments receiving NIH funding, according to Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research.

To provide remarkable health care for everyone in our community, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in all aspects of our work. To learn more about the department's work and accomplishments, please visit: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

The starting salary for the position is $46,000 annually; but is negotiable based 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 and the SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

• Previous lab experience in virology, immunology or molecular biology

• Experience with techniques including cell culture, virology/immunology methods such as plaque assay, ELISA, microneutralization, or flow cytometry
• Experience using mouse models of viral infection, including anesthesia,…