Research Associate Host-Pathogen Interactions

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 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.

• 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

• Bachelors degree in Biology Microbiology Immunology Molecular Biology Biomedical Sciences or a related field required.
• Masters degree in a related scientific discipline preferred.

Experience

• Four (4) years of relevant laboratory experience with a bachelors degree or
• Two (2) years of relevant laboratory experience with a masters degree.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with one or more of the following is highly desirable:

• 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 tracking systems

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and excellent laboratory technique.
• Ability to safely handle infectious agents blood biohazardous tissues and laboratory chemicals while following established biosafety procedures.
• Excellent organizational time management and documentation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively both independently and within a collaborative research team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard scientific software applications.
• Commitment to maintaining laboratory safety quality standards and scientific integrity.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU:

• Enjoy an employee-centered culture grounded in open communication empowerment and trust. We believe in working hard and having fun offering 100 culture events each year to bring our team together and keep the energy strong!
• Comprehensive health dental vision and life insurance coverage for you and your familyincluding pet insurance options.
• Competitive employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one increasing with years of service.
• Generous paid time off including 14 paid holidays and a paid Winter Recess (from the last week of December through New Years).
• Paid time off for short-term illness and mental wellness helping you take the time you need when life happens.
• Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to encourage giving back to the community.
• Paid parental leave to support you and your growing family.
• Flexible work arrangements that support a strong work-life balance.
• On-site medical clinic wellness incentives and prescription support programs designed to make care more accessible and affordable.
• On-site fitness center and wellness programs to help you stay active and healthy.
• Relaxed dress code so you can feel comfortable and be yourself at work.
• Dynamic learning environment with professional development opportunities mentorship tuition reimbursement and leadership programs to support your growth.
• Proud recipient of the 2025 Healthy Workplace Platinum Recognition from the San Antonio Business Group on Health (SABGH)the highest honor for employee-focused wellness initiatives.

WHO WE ARE:

• Texas Biomedical Research Institute is one of the worlds leading independent biomedical research institutions dedicated to advancing global human health through innovative biomedical research. Texas Biomed aims to unravel the mysteries of infectious diseases through innovative thinking creative problem solving and cutting-edge technologies.
• Texas Biomed is the only independent nonprofit infectious disease research institute in the U.S. to combine:
• The highest-level biocontainment labs for infectious disease and biodefense research
• A federally-designated National Primate Research Center
• More than 80 years of discoveries advancing diagnostics vaccines and therapies
• An entrepreneurial culture and specialized expertise in regulated science required for FDA approval

We take pride in fostering a culture of respect opportunity and unity! Texas Biomedical Research Institute provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race color sex religion national origin disability veteran status age marital status pregnancy genetic information or other legally protected status.