Research Scientist II, Pathology Research

About the role

The Abbott lab in the Pathology Department at UTMB is seeking motivated individuals with interest in vaccine biology to join the lab. The focus of the lab is to better understand the in vivo processes that contribute to B cell competition following vaccination with complex vaccine-relevant antigens. In this light we intensively study germinal center and memory B cells. We explore novel vaccine platforms and strategies in this process. A major focus of the lab is a better understanding of these processes in HIV vaccine candidates utilizing B cell transfer models (Immunity 2018 and PNAS 2020 (PMIDs:29287996 & 32873644)).

Responsibilities

• Plans, coordinates and directs moderately complex research experiments following general technical procedures.
• Has a high level of independence and strong work ethic.
• Makes modification to research procedures as determined by Principal Investigator.
• Establishes research objectives and methodology for lab research projects that are overseen by the PI.
• Can independently analyze and interpret scientific data of projects with minimal guidance from the PI.
• Tasks include running independent in vivo mouse vaccine experiments.
• Techniques include: high parameter flow cytometry (up to 27 colors), in vivo mouse work, fluorescent microscopy, confocal microscopy, standard tissue culture, standard mouse handling techniques, ELISA, ELISpot, 10x genomics, single cell PCR.
• Maintains organized records of all tests performed and data collected, compiles and tabulates data, provides analysis of results.
• Ensures the accurate assembly, calibration, operation and modification of a variety of laboratory equipment as defined by appropriate guidelines.
• Independently performs literature searches relevant to lab projects.
• Provides guidance to junior research staff and supervises work of junior lab staff when directed by the PI.
• Adheres to internal controls established for department.

Requirements

• PhD, MD, DO, or DVM in related field and one year of related experience.

Qualifications

• PhD in Immunology or related field (e.g. Biology with a focus in immunology).
• Substantial experience doing in vivo immunology experiments in mice.
• Standard immunological techniques – Flow cytometry, ELISAs / Elispot, fluorescent microscopy.
• Molecular biology skills – PCR, rt-PCR and RNA work, basic cloning.
• Two published first authored papers in immunology.

Skills

• Strong molecular biology skills.

Benefits

The lab is NIH funded.

Pay

Commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Day shift.