Research Assistant I - Griffin Lab

Palm Beach North Chamber; Florida; On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Griffin Lab at The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology is seeking a Research Assistant I to support studies on nuclear receptor signaling and immune responses. You will culture primary cells, perform immune stimulation assays, and analyze target gene expression using molecular biology techniques.

The role emphasizes meticulous bench work, data organization, and collaboration within a university research setting; prior lab experience and strong

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant area and two years of experience or equivalent combination.
• Hands-on experience with primary cell culture and aseptic techniques.
• Experience with RT-qPCR and basic molecular biology methods.

Responsibilities

• Isolate, culture, and maintain primary cells.
• Perform immune stimulation assays and analyze gene expression changes.
• Quantify expression via RT-qPCR; assist with RNA-seq and CUT&RUN prep.
• Maintain notebooks; assist with data analysis and figure preparation.
• Manage lab inventory and assist with animal procedures if applicable.

Skills

Primary cell culture

RT-qPCR

Aseptic technique

RNA/DNA extraction

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

MS in immunology/molecular biology (preferred)

Tools

Flow cytometry

RNA-seq prep

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.

Health Assessment Required: No

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.

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 is a time-limited position.

The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology

Additional Postings available from The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovatio

Applications close: Open until filled

Advertised: 23 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time