Assistant Research Scientist

Job Title

Assistant Research Scientist

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

School of Engineering Medicine

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Houston, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Our Commitment 

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.    

Who we are

The School of Engineering Medicine in collaboration with Texas A&M College of Engineering, Texas A&M School of Medicine and the state’s top-ranked Houston Methodist Hospital offer an innovative medical school program called ENMED.  This program was established to transform healthcare through translational interdisciplinary research, the development of medical technologies, and the development and training of “Physicianeers.” ENMED delivers a revolutionary blended curriculum with focus on innovation and entrepreneurship where students receive a Doctor of Medicine and Master of Engineering degree in the same four years.  

What we want

The Assistant Research Scientist is responsible for conducting research into their field of expertise. The Assistant Research Scientist will utilize the skills and expertise granted to them by their education and experience to complete research projects in their field of expertise.

What you need to know

Salary: Will be commensurate based on the selected hire’s education and experience.   

Location/Schedule: Houston, TX/Full-Time

Apply! Submitting a cover letter, CV/Resume to assist us with the review process. You may upload these documents on the application under CV/Resume.  

Required Education and Experience

• PhD degree in immunology, molecular biology, genetics, parasitology, cancer biology, or a related field.

• Advanced knowledge in molecular biology techniques and considerable experience working in a biosafety level 2 lab is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on direct experience in molecular biology, flow cytometric analyses, cell culture

• Solid understanding of fundamental molecular biology and immunology.

• Experience in handling mice is preferred, but not essential.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others

• Demonstrated skills in effective and clear communication

• Knowledge of laboratory maintenance and equipment

• Knowledge of computers and computer software related to the position

Responsibilities

Research 

• Will explore the intricate landscape of atypical T cells, focusing on Group 1 CD1 (CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c)-restricted T cells and Group 2 CD1 (CD1d)-restricted natural killer T (NKT) cells.  As we leverage cutting-edge tools, including our novel Group 1 CD1-transgenic human immune system (HIS) mice, to shed light on the nature and function of these human T-cell subsets in vivo.  Delve into the exciting and complex world of malaria research, as we work to identify parasite-derived lipid antigens recognized by these T cells.

• Will play a pivotal role in advancing our Group 1 CD1-TG HIS mouse model through enhancement of transduced plasmids encoding human hematopoietic cytokines and refine methodologies and construct these essential plasmids, laying the foundation for groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of T cell biology.

Data Analysis

• Will conduct various statistical analyses

General Laboratory Operation

• Operate all the instrumentation needed for projects and compiling data; makes and records observations and measurements.

• Will Coordinates with Principal Investigator to write and present scientific papers, grant proposals, and manuscripts for publication.

• May participate in joint projects involving faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and technicians. 

Meetings

• Will participate in weekly lab meetings with the center and other departments. Participate in joint projects involving the laboratory team. 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory and animal facility environment

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing laboratory procedures

• Ability to use hands for repetitive fine motor tasks, including pipetting and handling small instruments and samples

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds including laboratory supplies, reagent boxes, equipment, or animal cages

• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and move between work areas as required

• Ability to operate standard laboratory equipment, including biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes

• Ability to handle biological materials, including human and animal specimens, and work with chemical and biological agents in accordance with institutional safety policies

• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Ability to see, hear, and communicate effectively to perform laboratory work and interact with colleagues

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.