Biocontainment Research Assistant

Texas Biomedical Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Texas Biomedical Research Institute is seeking a Research Assistant – Biocontainment to support day-to-day laboratory activities in ABSL-3 and ABSL-4 environments. You will conduct cell culture, ELISA, RT-PCR, and sample processing while following SOPs and safety standards.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree and 1–2 years of research experience, with strong attention to detail and teamwork. The institution offers comprehensive benefits, competitive leave, and opportunities for professional

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a relevant field.
• 1–2 years of research experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to SOPs and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform scientific research activities, including cell culture, ELISA, RT-PCR, and sample processing.
• Follow laboratory protocols, SOPs, and established safety and quality standards.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment as required for research activities.
• Evaluate, select, and apply standard scientific techniques and methodologies.
• Generate, accurately record, organize, and compile research data.
• Demonstrate and maintain proficiency in laboratory techniques and data analysis.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with team members and organizational leaders.
• Prepare and use approved disinfectants and detergents to clean and disinfect research areas and equipment.
• Maintain strong working relationships with laboratory teams and organizational leaders.
• Assist with inventory management and stocking of laboratory supplies, and cleaning/autoclaving equipment.
• Review and stay current with scientific literature relevant to assigned labs and projects.
• Prepare data and research findings for presentations and publications.
• May contribute to manuscripts and grant applications.
• May assist with development and implementation of research protocols and SOPs.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Data management

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Description

The Research Assistant – Biocontainment supports researchers with day-to-day laboratory activities, including data management, sample processing, and scientific research within ABSL-3 and ABSL-4 environments.

The Role:

• Perform scientific research activities, including cell culture, ELISA, RT-PCR, and sample processing.
• Follow laboratory protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and established safety and quality standards.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment as required for research activities.
• Evaluate, select, and apply standard scientific techniques and methodologies.
• Generate, accurately record, organize, and compile research data.
• Demonstrate and maintain proficiency in laboratory techniques and data analysis.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with team members and organizational leaders.
• Prepare and use approved disinfectants and detergents to clean and disinfect research areas and associated equipment.
• Maintain strong working relationships with laboratory teams and organizational leaders.
• Assist with inventory management and stocking of laboratory supplies, as well as cleaning and autoclaving laboratory utensils and equipment as needed.
• Review and stay current with scientific literature relevant to assigned laboratories, projects, and research activities.
• Prepare data and research findings for presentations and publications.
• May contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts and grant applications.
• May assist with the development and implementation of research protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Our Ideal Candidate:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with major coursework relevant to the assigned field.

Preferred:

• 1–2 years of research experience, preferably in a laboratory or related scientific environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to following established protocols and safety procedures.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
• Strong organizational, communication, and data-management skills.

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 85 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.