Research Associate - Host-Pathogen Interactions
Listed on 2026-08-03
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Research/Development
Medical Technologist & Lab Technician, Clinical Research, Research Scientist, Medical Science -
Healthcare
Medical Technologist & Lab Technician, Clinical Research, Medical Science
Research Associate Position
We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly motivated Research Associate to support innovative research focused on host-pathogen interactions using the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) rhesus macaque model. In this role, you will provide critical laboratory and data management support for multiple NIH-funded HIV/AIDS research projects investigating viral persistence, immune responses, transcriptomic, metabolomic and epigenetic changes and neurocognitive disease.
The successful candidate will prepare and process blood and tissue samples for molecular and cellular analyses, perform a wide range of immunology and molecular biology techniques, maintain valuable biorepositories, and collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary research team.
The Role:- Prepare blood and tissue samples for nucleic acid extraction, including DNA, total RNA, microRNA, and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) analyses.
- Perform total RNA extraction for gene expression, DNA methylation, and microRNA studies.
- Process and embed tissues (including intestine, lymph nodes, adipose tissue, and brain) in OCT for spatial transcriptomics and other advanced imaging applications.
- Isolate and prepare epithelial cells, lamina propria cells, lymph node cells, adipose tissue cells, PBMCs, microglia, astrocytes, and other primary cell populations.
- Extract DNA and RNA from tissues and blood samples for downstream molecular analyses.
- Prepare samples for spatial transcriptomics, ATAC-sequencing, single-cell applications, and other next-generation sequencing technologies.
- Perform multicolor flow cytometry staining, acquisition, and analysis on blood and tissue-derived cell populations.
- Prepare cell suspensions for fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS).
- Conduct molecular biology assays, including real-time RT-qPCR, combined in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation and Western blotting, luciferase reporter assays, and molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, plasmid preparation, bacterial culture, and cell transfection.
- Assist with neurobehavioral testing of rhesus macaques using CANTAB and Wisconsin General Testing Apparatus (WGTA) systems, including data collection and analysis.
- Process, bank, and archive plasma, tissues, and cellular specimens in liquid nitrogen and ultra-low temperature freezers.
- Maintain laboratory databases, frozen sample inventories, and biorepository records.
- Monitor laboratory equipment and freezer conditions to ensure sample integrity.
- Order laboratory supplies, maintain inventory, and ensure laboratory organization, safety, and compliance.
- Assist with shipping and receiving infectious and noninfectious biological materials in accordance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
- Prepare stock solutions, controlled substances, and antiretroviral medications for Veterinary Medicine.
- Assist with the preparation and maintenance of IACUC protocols and other laboratory regulatory documentation.
- Assist with coordinating PET/CT imaging (internal) and magnetic resonance imaging (Mobile MRI services- external) of rhesus macaques.
Our Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate is passionate about biomedical research, enjoys working in a collaborative laboratory environment, and has exceptional organizational and technical skills.
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field required.
- Master's degree in a related scientific discipline preferred.
Experience
- Four (4) years of relevant laboratory experience with a bachelor's degree, or
- Two (2) years of relevant laboratory experience with a master's degree.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning, and gene expression analysis
- Cell and tissue culture using aseptic techniques
- Flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)
- Ficoll separation of blood components
- Immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and microscopy
- Tissue processing and biobanking
- Next-generation sequencing sample preparation (e.g., ATAC-seq, spatial transcriptomics, single-cell technologies)
- Laboratory information management and sample…
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