JOB DESCRIPTION:
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)). The research scientist II should have prior immunology experience working with in vivo mouse models and have a high degree of scientific integrity. Prior experience studying B cells is a plus but not required. Individuals will have the opportunity to learn advanced techniques in the lab and receive regular mentorship. The successful candidate will be trained in required lab specific techniques such as B cell transfer. The successful candidate will be highly independent in running experiments, drafting manuscripts, and presenting at conferences with supervision of the PI. There will also be opportunities for supervising junior research staff. If hired, the expected minimum commitment is three years. The lab is NIH funded. The ideal candidate will have prior lab experience in immunology and very strong molecular biology skills. The ideal candidate should have at least two published first author papers focused in immunology in reputable journals and provide the contact information for 3 references. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• 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.
• Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
PhD, MD, DO, or DVM in related field and one year of related experience

PREFERRED 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

SALARY:
Commensurate with experience.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.