RESEARCHER III

Position Summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Microbiology, in the laboratory of Dr. Rodney King, seeks a Researcher III with expertise in immunology research related to understanding the heterogeneity of antigen-reactive B cells and antibodies.

General Responsibilities

• To independently set up and perform experiments and procedures in support of lab goals.
• To collect, enter, summarize and analyze data.
• To monitor results, detect and report unusual outcomes and suggest modifications.
• To develop and improve techniques for the lab.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain automated liquid handling systems for high-throughput molecular biology applications, including PCR setup, sample preparation, and plate-based assays.
• Culture and maintain mammalian cell lines under aseptic conditions.
• Execute recombinant protein expression experiments, including transfection, protein production, and purification workflows.
• Perform flow cytometry experiments for cell characterization, protein expression analysis, and quality control assessments.
• Analyze and interpret flow cytometry data using appropriate software packages.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records.
• Troubleshoot experimental procedures and optimize protocols to improve efficiency and data quality.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and maintain laboratory equipment in good working order.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field OR Bachelor's degree in related field and two (2) years of related experience OR Associate's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required.
• Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.
• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related life science field preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency in mammalian cell culture techniques and aseptic handling.
• Experience with recombinant protein expression systems (transient or stable expression).
• Practical experience operating flow cytometers and analyzing multi-parameter data.
• Familiarity with automated liquid handling platforms (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Beckman).
• Automated liquid handling system operation and method development.
• Transfection methods (lipid-based, electroporation, viral transduction).
• Flow cytometry operation, compensation, gating strategies, and data analysis.
• Protein expression, harvest, and purification workflows.
• Standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, Western blot, ELISA).
• Laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic notebooks.
• On the job training is available, but candidates with prior experience with cell culture and molecular biology techniques such as purification of nucleic acids, RT-PCR, and cell culture, even if exposure is only through laboratory coursework, are preferred.
• One to two (1-2) years of prior experience with the production of recombinant protein production and purification, flow cytometry and/or isolation of primary cells is desired.
• Previous experience in a basic science lab is preferred.

Key Skills

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with excellent record-keeping practices.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and scientific curiosity.
• Strong communication skills with ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of data quality and integrity.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new techniques and technologies.