Senior Research Assistant/Associate – Immunology and Mucosal Vaccine Development

Description

We are seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and detail-oriented Senior Research Assistant/Associate to join our research team at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. This full-time position is an excellent opportunity for an experienced individual passionate about advancing vaccine research and development.

Our laboratory focuses on vaccine research and development, Infectious disease prevention, and disease transmission studies, using the non-human primate (NHP) model.  Current research efforts are directed toward developing innovative mucosal vaccine platforms (HIV, HPV/HIV, TB, ...) to prevent or control infection while investigating the immune responses and correlates of protection.

Key Responsibilities:

• Isolate, prepare, and process biological specimens from NHPs.
• Conduct and optimize scientific experiments related to mucosal vaccines.
• Investigate host immune responses, including cellular and humoral immunity.
• Set up and operate laboratory equipment, contributing to maintenance and calibration.
• Record, compile, and analyze research data while maintaining meticulous documentation.
• Perform standardization and troubleshooting of experimental protocols as needed.
• Assist with database management, freezer inventories, and tissue sample tracking.
• Order laboratory supplies and reagents to ensure smooth operations.
• Participate in laboratory meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Present findings and contribute to the lab’s collaborative research environment.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Microbiology or Immunology.
• A minimum of four years of laboratory bench experience.
• Proficiency in immunology techniques (ELISPOT, Flow cytometry, Luminex, etc.).
• Experience working in BSL-2+ and/or BSL-3 environments.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in, Microbiology, Immunology, or translational sciences with at least three years of research experience.
• Expertise in multicolor flow cytometry, neutralizing antibody assays, immunohistology/imaging.
• Experience in cellular phenotype characterization and advanced immunological techniques.
• Familiarity with Non-human primate (NHP) research is highly desirable.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• Demonstrate a strong work ethic and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Exhibit excellent communication skills (both written and spoken) in English.
• Show a commitment to contributing to the lab’s vaccine research for at least three years.
• This position reports directly to Dr. Marie-Claire Gauduin. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter summarizing their research interests, past experience, and laboratory expertise, along with their curriculum vitae.

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! 

• Enjoy an employee-centered culture grounded in open communication, empowerment, and trust. We believe in working hard and having fun, offering 100+ culture events each year to bring our team together and keep the energy strong!
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for you and your family—including pet insurance options.
• Competitive employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one, increasing with years of service.
• Generous paid time off, including 14 paid holidays and a paid Winter Recess (from the last week of December through New Year’s).
• Paid time off for short-term illness and mental wellness, helping you take the time you need when life happens.
• Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to encourage giving back to the community.
• Paid parental leave to support you and your growing family.
• Flexible work arrangements that support a strong work-life balance.
• On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives, and prescription support programs designed to make care more accessible and affordable.
• On-site fitness center and wellness programs to help you stay active and healthy.
• Relaxed dress code so you can feel comfortable and be yourself at work.
• Dynamic learning environment with professional development opportunities, mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and leadership programs to support your growth.
• Proud recipient of the 2025 Healthy Workplace Platinum Recognition from the San Antonio Business Group on Health (SABGH)—the highest honor for employee-focused wellness initiatives.

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.