Research Associate I, Pathology Research
Min Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in basic science or equivalent; no experience required
Specific Job Related Duties
To assist in the laboratory study of vector borne diseases, with an emphasis on Rickettsia and Ehrlichia bacterial species and tick-borne viruses. Studies will be focused on the epidemiology of tick- and flea-borne bacterial and viral pathogens in conjunction with academic and public health collaborators. Tasks will include basic microbiologic techniques, growth and propagation of various rickettsial species, basic molecular and immunodiagnostic techniques, and the field collection of arthropod vectors. Specifically, successful candidates will perform the following:
- Cell culture
- Propagation of Rickettsia and Ehrlichia spp. via cell culture and hens’ eggs
- DNA and RNA isolation from blood, tissue, and arthropods
- Conventional and quantitative real-time PCR
- DNA gel electrophoresis
- Cloning of PCR products for sequencing
- DNA sequence analysis
- Field collection of arthropods (fleas and ticks)
- Identification of arthropods (fleas and ticks) using taxonomic keys
- Western blot analysis
- Indirect immunofluorescence assay of human and animal sera
- Inoculation, monitoring, and handling of small laboratory animals
- Data analysis
Salary Range
Annual salary commensurate with experience, position grant funded.
Preferred Work Experience
Experience in cellular immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, cell culture and sterile technique preferred.
UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.