Research Assistant I - Griffin Lab

University of Florida; Town of Florida (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The Griffin Lab at the University of Florida is seeking a Research Assistant I to support studies on nuclear receptor signaling and immune responses. The successful candidate will perform primary cell culture, characterize immune cell responses, and analyze gene expression changes.

Required qualifications include a bachelor's degree and two years of experience; preferred MS in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology or related field, plus experience with flow cytometry.

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

Molecular biology

Education

Bachelor's degree

MS (preferred)

Tools

Flow cytometry

Job description

Job no: 540714
Work type: Staff 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.

Health Assessment Required: No

Advertised: 23 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Open until filled

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.