Research Specialist

Research Specialist

This position in the lab of Dr. Lee Fortunato is to assist with supervising the operation of the Virology Laboratory. It will perform and assist with research experiments conducted by the PI and other lab members as needed, including tissue culture infections, sample collection, preparation and analysis. They will be responsible for general laboratory maintenance and organization, ordering supplies and monitoring laboratory budgets and will assist with manuscript preparation and ensuring compliance with all Federal, State and University regulations and directives.

Performs research activities and analysis, recording observations and measurements, and reports results. Participates in analyzing and preparing results for publication. Works under general supervision. Duties may include:
Prepare standard solutions for calibration and analyses, interpret test results and comparing with determined standards and limits, collect laboratory or field data, conduct research and analysis of scientific data, participate in research design discussions, perform literature reviews, prepare reports, compare data and historical records for trend verification, develop reference files, comparison charts, and graphs on research data, assist with site inspections and field oversight.

Have little or no supervisory responsibilities. Other duties as assigned.

Required Experience:

Following pre-established procedures or protocols, collecting and reviewing scientific data, keeping complete and accurate records, working in a team environment.

Required

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in biological sciences or related field.

Required Other:
Ability to occasionally work nonstandard business hours.

Additional Preferred:
Coursework in molecular biology, cell biology, virology and/or neurobiology, at least two years experience in a biological laboratory setting, experience with research lab operations and organization, experience with histological techniques and fluorescent microscopy, including image analysis, experience with molecular biology and cell biology techniques, experience in tissue-culture driven experiments, experience working with a BSL2 human viral pathogens, experience with Mac operating systems and analysis software, excellent organization and communication skills, demonstrated ability to execute and complete tasks in timely fashion, demonstrated ability to work independently in a collaborative environment, demonstrated capability of organized and complete record keeping.

Physical Requirements &

Working Conditions:

Must be able to: work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances, work in adverse environmental conditions, lift, carry or otherwise move up to 75 pounds, work with human pathogen utilizing BSL2 safety protocols.

FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt

Employee Category:
Classified

Pay Range: $20.00 per hour or higher commensurate with experience

Type of Appointment:
Fiscal Year

FTE: 1

Full Time/Part Time:
Full Time

Funding:
This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.

A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy.

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Posting Date: 03/26/2026

Closing Date:
Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants:
Search is open until filled. Final date to receive applications for priority review is July 19, 2026. Applicants are required to provide the letter of qualification stating how they meet each of the required qualifications and any of the preferred qualifications.

Applicant Resources: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-resources

Background Check Statement:
Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.

EEO Statement:
The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.