Research Associates - Chemical Biology and/or Immunology to study infection immunity and cancer immunotherapy

Description

Join a multidisciplinary research team at Texas Biomedical Research Institute working at the intersection of metabolomics, lipidomics, immunology, and bacteriology. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative research focused on identifying bioactive metabolites, lipids, and natural products and translating these discoveries into potential therapeutic candidates for infectious diseases and cancer.

Our laboratory uses cutting-edge approaches, including mass spectrometry, chemical analysis and derivatization, multi-omics analyses, cell culture and imaging, protein expression, bacterial infection at BSL2 and BSL3 levels, and animal models, to identify mammalian and microbial metabolites that interact with protein receptors to stimulate immune responses. Current research focuses on identifying metabolites as T-cell antigens or protein ligands to stimulate protective immunity against tuberculosis and cancer.

Successful candidates will play an important role in supporting research projects and advancing discoveries in biomedical science.

• Support multidisciplinary projects focusing on metabolomics and lipidomics or infection and cancer immunology.
• Develop, optimize, and improve assay procedures to address research needs.
• Design and coordinate research activities and experiments.
• Maintain high viability and accurate records for cell lines, gene constructs, bacterial strains, recombinant proteins, and antibodies. Or maintain high-quality and accurate records for polar and lipid metabolites, drugs, formulations, and chemical solvents by complying with chemical safety guidelines.
• Prepare project reports and biosafety and animal protocols.
• Design and perform immunological assays, bacterial infection, and animal studies, or metabolomic and lipidomic profiling.
• Troubleshoot failed assays. 
• Maintain accurate and complete experimental records in a timely manner.
• Participate in preparations of research reports, abstracts, posters, slides, and manuscripts. 

Additional considerations:

• Master’s degree in chemical biology, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, or a related field, with major coursework relevant to the field of assignment and at least two years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with at least four years of relevant experience. 
• Familiarity with laboratory research techniques and scientific data collection and analysis.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to research accuracy and scientific excellence.
• Ability to communicate research findings clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.
• Commitment to laboratory safety, ethical research practices, biosafety requirements, or animal protocol compliance. 

WHO WE ARE:

Join our incredible mission to pave the way for a world free from the fear of infectious disease and infection-related cancer! Texas Biomedical Research Institute is pioneering and sharing scientific research to protect people, families, and communities around the world from the threat of infectious diseases and associated cancer. Our discoveries create breakthroughs in medical research that advance diagnostics, vaccines, and therapies.

Texas Biomed is the only independent, nonprofit infectious disease research institute in the U.S. to combine:

• The highest-level biocontainment laboratories 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

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU:

• Employee-centered culture grounded in open communication, empowerment, and trust
• 100+ culture events each year to bring our team together
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage
• Pet insurance options
• Competitive employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one
• Generous paid time off, including 14 paid holidays and paid Winter Recess
• Paid parental leave
• Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
• Flexible work arrangements supporting work-life balance
• On-site medical clinic and wellness programs
• On-site fitness center
• Relaxed dress code
• Professional development, mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and leadership opportunities

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.