Research Assistant – Viral Pathogenesis and Translational Modeling

Description

The Role:

The Baxter Lab at Texas Biomedical Research Institute is looking for an enthusiastic, team-oriented Research Assistant who will provide technical and lab support for research studies examining how viruses cause disease, developing and refining animal models, and examining medical countermeasures against emerging and re-emerging pathogens. The successful candidate will support multiple projects conducted at BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 containment and perform a wide range of techniques from molecular biology to animal studies, primarily involving mice, hamsters, and guinea pigs. 

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Perform scientific research tasks involving infectious agents at BSL-2/BSL-3 containment, including tissue culture, virus propagation and tittering (e.g., plaque assays), and sample collection and analysis.
• Perform all aspects of rodent experiments at ABSL-2/ABSL-3/ABSL-4, including infections, drug administration, sample collection, clinical/behavioral assessment, and necropsies.
• Manage mouse breeding colonies, including setting up breeders, tracking litters, performing weanings, and genotyping.
• Perform DNA, RNA, and/or protein extraction on samples, and cellular and molecular techniques including PCR, ELISA, western blot, transfections, cloning, sequencing, and flow cytometry.
• Ensure a safe working environment under BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 containment.
• Generate, record, compile, and analyze research data, take meticulous notes on research experiments, and prepare detailed reports on research results.
• Assist with the standardization and troubleshooting of experimental protocols.
• Perform tasks related to general laboratory maintenance such as inventory and stocking of laboratory supplies, preparing reagents and cleaning/autoclaving utensils.
• Set up, operate, perform quality control on, and troubleshoot problems with equipment and reagents. 
• Contribute to team-wide laboratory activities, supporting cross-functional goals.
• Attend and participate in weekly Baxter lab meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Perform occasional after-hours or weekend work.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• Will have a Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences or related field.
• Must have strong organization skills, be detail-oriented, and be able to follow detailed protocols/SOPs.
• Must be willing to work collaboratively with other lab members but also independently with minimal supervision when required.
• Exhibits excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Must be able to obtain security risk assessment (SRA) approval from the Federal Select Agent Program.
• Previous experience working with animals in a research setting, particularly mice, is preferred.
• Previous experience working with infectious agents and in a BSL-3/ABSL-3 or BSL-4/ABSL-4 setting is preferred.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit a cover letter summarizing their research interests and past research/lab animal experience along with their CV and 3 professional contact references. Questions about the position can be directed to Dr. Tori Baxter (vbaxter@txbiomed.org).

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.

Potential Hazards:

• Working with viruses, bacteria, and helminths at BSL-2/ABSL-2, BSL-3/ABSL-3, and BSL-4/ABSL-4 containment.
• Working with recombinant DNA/RNA at BSL-2/ABSL-2, BSL-3/ABSL-3, and BSL-4/ABSL-4 containment.
• Working with animals, primarily rodents, at BSL-2/ABSL-2, BSL-3/ABSL-3, and BSL-4/ABSL-4 containment.