RESEARCHER II

Position Summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Microbiology, laboratories of Dr. J. Victor Garcia and Dr. Angela Wahl, seek a Researcher II to support studies in immunology and host pathogen interactions using precision animal models. Our work has direct relevance to human health and involves close collaboration with academic, government, and industry partners. Research Focus Areas include HIV persistence, cure, transmission, prevention of Microbiome in health and disease, and In vivo studies of human pathogens (e.g., TB, RSV, CMV, COVID 19).

General Responsibilities

• Under minimal supervision, to set up and perform routine and established lab procedures in support of lab goals.
• To collect, enter and summarize data.
• To monitor results and report unusual outcomes.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Maintain electronic lab notebooks, databases, and specimen tracking.
2. Manage animal breeding colonies and perform routine animal procedures.
3. Handle animals exposed to HIV and other human pathogens.
4. Perform survival surgeries and post-operative care.
5. Collect and process blood and tissue for flow cytometry, cell culture, and storage.
6. Maintain gnotobiotic isolators and liquid nitrogen storage.
7. Prepare specimen collection materials and maintain cell lines.
8. Provide routine animal husbandry and health monitoring.
9. Ensure compliance with ARP and IACUC regulations.
10. Maintain accurate colony records, cage cards, and biohazard signage.
11. Prepare media, reagents, and surgery packs.
12. Maintain organized specimen storage and inventory.
13. Ensure a clean, safe, and well-stocked laboratory environment.
14. Collect and analyze flow cytometry data.
15. Compile results into databases, spreadsheets, or graphs.
16. Communicate findings clearly to project leads and PIs.
17. Perform other duties as assigned.

Hourly Range

$ 15.50- $ 23.51

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in related field OR Associate's degree in related field and two (2) years of related experience OR High School diploma or GED and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferences

• BS/BA in Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, or a closely related life science field by start date.
• Prior laboratory and/or animal research experience.
• Recent mouse work experience (within the last 6 months), including colony maintenance, handling/restraint, and routine procedures such as injections
• Experience with mouse necropsies, survival surgeries, and work involving infectious diseases
• Flow cytometry experience
• Proficiency using a personal computer and software for data analysis/presentation
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule

Key Skills

• Organization, attention to detail, and critical thinking
• Ability to work as part of an outstanding team and with a diverse group of people
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills in English