Research Assistant I - Griffin Lab

The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology; Town of Florida (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

The Griffin Lab at the University of Florida is seeking a motivated Research Assistant I to support studies on nuclear receptor signaling and immune responses. You will culture primary cells, analyze gene expression changes, and assist with RNA-seq sample prep and molecular biology workflows.

Responsibilities include maintaining cell lines, performing immune assays, and helping with data analysis and figure preparation. Prior lab experience and attention to detail are essential for success.

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 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).

Skills

Primary cell culture

RT-qPCR

Plasmid transfection

Aseptic technique

Immune assays

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

MS in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology or related field

Tools

RNA/DNA extraction

Job description

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.

Job Description

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.

Special Instructions To Applicants

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Please provide names and email addresses of three to five references as part of the application process. When ready, the hiring department will contact the listed references via email requesting their reference letters to be uploaded directly to the application website.

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\u2019s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran\u2019s Preference Page for more specific information.

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

Health Assessment Required

No