Research Associate - Microbiology & Immunology (Korkmaz Lab)
This Research Associate position is in the laboratory of Dr. Filiz Korkmaz in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. We are seeking a full-time research associate to research the regulation of the host response to respiratory pathogens. The research will explore the balance between host defense and tissue repair following lung infection, with a focus on resident and recruited innate immune cells. The Research Associate will also assist in training undergraduate and graduate students, as well as assist with mouse colony management.
Position Responsibilities
- Manage mouse colonies and animal husbandry operations; genotype/phenotype mice.
- Perform library and online research on specified topics for use in experimentation.
- Perform experimental studies based on given hypotheses and goals; evaluate and record outcomes of experiments based on hypotheses and goals and submit for investigator’s inspection.
- Assist in the analysis and interpretation of experiments.
- Maintain cell lines by feeding, splitting/passaging, and cryopreservation/storage.
- Maintain laboratory stocks of bacterial and viral pathogens.
- Perform mouse experiments in Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) containment with infectious agents; Training will be provided for handling mice in BSL2.
- Perform infection of mice with bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Training will be provided to perform intratracheal and intranasal infections.
- Perform routine experimental procedures in the animal models, observe for signs of phenotype, illness, injury or stress.
- Perform assays on samples collected from mouse and tissue culture experiments, including but not limited to, RT-qPCR, ELISA (single and multiplex), immunohistochemistry, Seahorse assays, and flow cytometry.
- Harvest mouse tissue including blood, lungs, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.
- Prepare chemical solutions and media according to established protocols and standards, including proper handling and storage of all solid, liquid, and gaseous chemicals and solvents.
- Complete work within specified time guidelines; discuss progress and any problems as needed.
- Present research progress at laboratory meetings.
- Assist in the completion of required paperwork for new and departing laboratory personnel, including required vaccinations and exposure testing, annual training, radiation safety, biohazard safety, laboratory safety, and fire safety training.
- Assist in setting up a functional and organized laboratory and tissue culture space.
- Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment, including the timely ordering, receiving, and proper storage of supplies and equipment.
- Maintain general laboratory functionality, including all equipment.
- Maintain a clean work area.
- Oversee undergraduate and graduate students in successful completion of assigned tasks and research.
Percent of Time: 100%
Staff Type: Professional & Scientific
Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
Pay Grade: 4A - https://hr.uiowa.edu/professional-pay/compensation-plan-structure-a-FY18
Benefits Highlights:
Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
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Education Requirements
- Requires a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field.
- A minimum of 1 year of experience working in an immunology research laboratory or related field.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organizational skills, and interpersonal skills
- Experience gathering, recording, and analyzing experimental data.
- Experience with data analysis and presentation software, such as Microsoft Excel/Word, Prism, etc.
- Proficiency with each of the following:
- Ability to effectively prioritize projects to consistently meet deadlines.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work in a culturally diverse environment.
- Ability to work in a team.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience and previous training in the safe and humane handling of mice.
Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or resume, and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check.. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.
The department intends to hire one candidate from either the Research Assistant (REQ# 24002316) or Research Associate (REQ# 24002317) based on the qualifications of the successful candidate.
For additional questions, please contact Anne Phillips at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, associational preference, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. The University also affirms its commitment to providing equal opportunities and equal access to University facilities. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply for all employment vacancies. For additional information on nondiscrimination policies, contact the Coordinator of Title IX and Section 504, and the ADA in The Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity, 319/335-0705 (voice) or 319/335-0697 (text), The University of Iowa, 202 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242-1316.
Persons with disabilities may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu, to inquire or discuss accommodation needs
