Research Assistant I - Griffin Lab

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Griffin Lab at the University of Florida seeks a Research Assistant I to support studies on nuclear receptor signaling and innate/adaptive immune responses. You will isolate and culture primary cells, conduct immune stimulation assays, and assist with gene expression analyses.

Required: bachelor's degree with lab experience; preferred MS in immunology or related field; experience with RT-qPCR, RNA-seq prep, and flow cytometry. Full-time, on-site role with veteran's preference eligibility.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with primary cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Experience with RT-qPCR and basic molecular biology methods including plasmid transfection.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Isolate, culture, and maintain primary cells.
• Perform immune stimulation assays.
• Quantify gene expression by RT-qPCR; assist with RNA-seq and CUT&RUN prep.
• Maintain cell lines and perform routine molecular biology (RNA/DNA extraction, cloning, western blot).
• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and assist with data analysis/ figure preparation.
• Manage lab inventory, reagent ordering, and equipment maintenance.
• Assist with IACUC-related animal procedures (if applicable).

Skills

Primary cell culture

Aseptic technique

Strong organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree + 2 years experience

Tools

RT-qPCR

RNA/DNA extraction

Cloning

Western blot

RNA-seq prep

Job description

Research Assistant I - Griffin Lab

Job No: 540714

Work Type: Full Time

Location: Palm Beach

Categories: Grant or Research Administration, Veteran's Preference Eligible

Department: 37044060 - SR-MM-GRIFFIN, P LAB

Classification Title: Research Assistant I

Classification Minimum Requirements: A bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

The Griffin Lab is seeking a motivated research assistant to support studies on nuclear receptor signaling and innate/adaptive immune responses. The successful candidate will perform primary cell culture, characterize immune cell responses, and analyze target gene expression changes using biochemical, molecular and cellular biology techniques.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Isolate, culture, and maintain primary cells.
• Perform immune stimulation assays.
• Quantify target gene expression changes via RT-qPCR and assist with RNA-seq and CUT&RUN sample preparation.
• Maintain cell lines and perform routine molecular biology (RNA/ DNA extraction, cloning, western blot).
• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and assist with data analysis/ figure preparation.
• Manage lab inventory, reagent ordering, and equipment maintenance.
• Assist with IACUC-related animal procedures (if applicable).

Expected Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with primary cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Experience with RT-qPCR and basic molecular biology methods including plasmid transfection.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred

• MS in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology or related field.
• Experience with flow cytometry.
• Experience with immune cell isolation and functional assays.
• Familiarity with RNA-seq sample prep or bioinformatics basics.
• Prior experience in an academic research setting.

This is a time-limited position.

The University of Florida is a member of the State University System of Florida and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit.

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

This position is eligible for Veteran's preference. If you are claiming Veteran's preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran's Preference Page for more specific information.

This position is open until filled. Applicant review will begin July 30, 2026.

Health Assessment Required: No

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392- 2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.