Research Assistant/Associate

The Sharan Lab at Texas Biomedical Research Institute is looking to hire an enthusiastic, responsible and skilled full-time Research Assistant or Research Associate. The candidate will work closely with the PI to conduct experimental projects on Tuberculosis and HIV/SIV pathogenesis in a mouse and nonhuman primate model (NHP) in the BSL3 high containment and BSL2 laboratory. The candidate is expected to keep abreast of the techniques and methods being employed in the lab, perform protocol standardizations if needed. The candidate will collect, prepare and report the results of the experiment and may provide supervision and guidance to junior technicians as needed.

Work Duties:

• Collects, prepares, analyzes and evaluates specimens from mice and NHPs.
• Processes blood for PBMC collection and bronchoalveolar lavage samples from mice and NHPs.
• Prepares drug dosages for treatment of mice and NHPs.
• Operates laboratory equipment, contributes to laboratory maintenance.
• Orders lab supplies, keeps inventory of samples and reagents.
• Assists in small animal surgery and necropsies.
• Prepares media plates, counts bacterial CFUs.
• Participates in training sessions and workshops as needed.
• Prepares for animal necropsies: labelling of tubes, coordination with BSL3 staff and veterinarians.
• Assists post-docs / PI of the lab in data analysis as needed.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• 1 – 2 years' experience in standard lab techniques such as preparation of PBMCs from blood, processing animal tissues, preparation of growth media, autoclaving reagents.
• Flow cytometry experience is not a must but highly desirable.
• At least 2 years' experience of working in a biology/ animal model/ immunology research laboratory.
• A bachelor's degree or higher in biology, biomedical sciences.
• 1 -2 years' experience in working with NHPs or small animal model in BSL3 lab setting.
• Strong leadership and teamwork qualities.
• Good communication skills.
• Commitment to the program for at least 2 years.

In addition to applying on our career site, interested applicants should attach a cover letter summarizing research interests in our lab and past research experience.

Who We Are:

Join our incredible mission to pave the way for a world free from the fear of infectious disease

Texas Biomedical Research Institute is pioneering and sharing scientific research to protect you, your families, and our global community from the threat of infectious diseases. Our scientific discoveries create breakthroughs in medical research to provide better overall global health.

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

• The highest-level biocontainment labs 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:

• Recognized as one of the San Antonio Business Journal's Best Places to Work in 2025.
• Awarded the 2024 Healthy Workplace Platinum Recognition by the San Antonio Business Group on Health (SABGH).
• Employee-centered culture with an emphasis on open communication, job empowerment and trust
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for your family (and even your pets
• An incomparable employer funded retirement plan with 7% retirement funding starting day 1 (and increases upon years of service)
• Generous paid time off, with 14 paid holidays including Winter Recess (paid week off the last week of December)
• On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives & paid prescription drug resources to promote health management
• On-site gym & wellness programs
• Flexible work arrangements for work-life balance
• We offer a relaxed dress code so you can feel comfortable and be yourself at work.
• Dynamic learning environment with opportunities for professional development, mentorship, continuing education (tuition reimbursement) and leadership programs to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

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.