Laboratory Technician - Vaccine Development

ISU Research Park; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ISU Research Park seeks a highly motivated Technician to support RNA antigen manufacturing and downstream lipid nanoparticle encapsulation, while performing testing related to quality, sterility, reproducibility and safety. The role requires aseptic techniques, experience with RNA/DNA, vaccine formulation and manufacturing, and familiarity with LIMS or willingness to learn.

You will help advance vaccine candidates from research through regulatory steps, working in a collaborative environment to

Qualifications

• Degree in biology/chemistry-related field with relevant lab training.
• 1–3 years hands-on experience in aseptic technique, molecular biology, chemistry, and vaccine formulation/manufacturing.
• Experience with sterile handling and working in BSL-2 environments; familiarity with LIMS and ELN systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• RNA and DNA research & development.
• LIMS and ELN management and documentation.
• Quality and compliance activities related to vaccine development.

Skills

Aseptic technique

Molecular biology

Laboratory problem-solving

Lab equipment troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry or a related field

Tools

LIMS

ELN

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Technician who thrives in a dynamic environment, demonstrating flexibility, adaptability, and comfort navigating ambiguity while proactively solving problems and adjusting priorities as business needs evolve. This position is primarily responsible for RNA antigen manufacturing and downstream lipid nanoparticle encapsulation as well as testing associated with quality, sterility, reproducibility and safety. The successful candidate will have experience in aseptic techniques, working with RNA and DNA, vaccine formulation and manufacturing, and an understanding of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or a willingness to learn. A successful candidate for this role must demonstrate adaptability in dynamic environments, effectively shifting priorities and approaches as project needs evolve, apply critical thinking to troubleshoot both scientific, mechanical and/or engineering challenges, and exercise sound judgment and confidence in making timely, data-informed decisions as well as willingness to step up into responsibilities outside of the job description. This role will support the development and optimization of vaccine candidates, working in a collaborative environment to advance products from research through regulatory approval, scale-up and regulated manufacturing of vaccine production.

Key Responsibilities:

RNA and DNA Research & Development:

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN):

Quality & Compliance:

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry or a related field.
• 1-3 years of hands-on experience in aseptic technique, molecular biology, chemistry, and vaccine formulation or manufacturing.
• Experience with sterile handling of biological materials and working in BSL-2 environments.
• Knowledge of vaccine formulation principles, including adjuvants and stabilizers.
• Experience with or willingness to learn LIMS and ELN systems.
• Proven hands-on aptitude with the ability to work effectively with lab equipment and instrumentation, troubleshoot issues, and perform basic repairs or mechanical fixes as needed to support operations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with lipid nanoparticle (LNP) or viral vector vaccine formulation.
• Hands-on experience with downstream processing techniques such as ultrafiltration, chromatography, and lyophilization.
• Proficiency in RNA and DNA extraction, qPCR, and molecular cloning.
• Knowledge of immunological assays such as ELISA and flow cytometry.
• Prior experience in industry or a regulated laboratory environment.
• Experience leveraging tools for efficient data analysis or laboratory automation to streamline workflows.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for vaccine development.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software systems, including LIMS and ELN