Postdoctoral Scientist – Viral Pathogenesis and Immunology

Texas Biomedical Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

On-site wellness programs

On-site medical clinic

Job summary

Texas Biomedical Research Institute seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct independent studies in viral pathogenesis and immunology, focusing on mouse models to understand disease mechanisms of emerging pathogens. The role emphasizes collaboration, publication preparation, and grant support within a dynamic lab environment.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. in a relevant field and has experience with virology/immunology techniques such as flow cytometry, PCR, and in high containment settings

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in virology, microbiology, immunology, pathobiology, or related discipline.
• Experience in virology/immunology, including flow cytometry, and working with pathogens in a high containment setting (BSL-3).
• Ability and desire to lead collaborative research projects and mentor students and junior lab members.
• No prior experience with mouse models required, willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct scientific experiments independently and with other researchers in the lab and at Texas Biomed.
• Prepare materials for publication and grant applications.
• Participate in seminars and scientific meetings relevant to the field.

Skills

Flow cytometry

Collaborative research

Mentorship

Independent experimentation

Education

Ph.D. in Virology/Immunology/Microbiology/Pathobiology

Tools

BSL-3 facilities experience

Molecular cloning

PCR

ELISA

RNA-Seq

Job description

Description

The Baxter lab at Texas Biomedical Research Institute is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team in conducting independent research in viral pathogenesis and immunology. We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated, and collaborative individual interested in developing and utilizing animal models to understand the mechanisms by which emerging pathogens induce disease. Our group uses multiple in vitro and in vivo techniques to examine the pathogenesis and host immune response to infections, including molecular cloning, PCR, plaque assays, ELISA, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, transcriptomics/RNA-Seq, neurocognitive behavioral testing, and in vivo imaging. The successful candidate will work on projects using mouse models to study emerging viral pathogens, with a focus on neurotropic alphaviruses, and will be encouraged to develop new directions of research in the lab.

The Role:

• Design and conduct scientific experiments independently and in collaboration with other researchers in the lab and at Texas Biomed.
• Prepare materials for publication and grant applications.
• Participate in seminars and scientific meetings appropriate to field of interest.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• A highly motivated individual with a Ph.D. in virology, microbiology, immunology, pathobiology, or related discipline.
• Previous research experience in virology and/or immunology, performing flow cytometry, and working with pathogens in a high containment setting (e.g., BSL3 facility) is ideal.
• The ability and desire to lead collaborative research projects involving multiple scientists and technicians and mentor students and more junior lab members are preferred.
• No prior experience with mouse models is required, just a willingness to learn.

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:

• o The highest-level biocontainment labs for infectious disease and biodefense research
• o A federally-designated National Primate Research Center
• o More than 85 years of discoveries advancing diagnostics, vaccines and therapies
• o 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.