RESEARCHER III
Position Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Microbiology, in the laboratory of Dr. Rodney King is in search of an experienced Researcher III interested in immunology research related to understanding the heterogeneity of antigen-reactive B cells and antibodies. The King laboratory is focused on understanding antibody repertoires and the evolution of carbohydrate-reactive and alloimmune B cell responses, with applications spanning mucosal immunity, transplantation, autoimmunity, and vaccine development. His group integrates high-throughput antigen receptor sequencing, single B cell antigen receptor cloning, recombinant monoclonal antibody expression, and multidimensional serological profiling to define antigen-reactive B cell repertoires relevant to human health and disease. The successful candidate will perform sophisticated laboratory techniques including automated liquid handling, mammalian cell culture-based recombinant protein expression, and flow cytometry analysis. This role is ideal for a motivated individual with strong technical skills and a passion for advancing biological research.
General Responsibilities
- As directed, 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.
Salary Range
$ 35,570- $ 59,800
Qualifications
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.
Preferences
- Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related life science field.
- 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.
- 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.
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