Research Associate

University of Kentucky; Lexington (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our NIH-funded program on antiviral innate immunity. The role involves leading experiments with molecular biology, biochemistry, cell culture, viral infection models, and mouse systems.

The successful candidate will have opportunities to develop new directions, author first‑author papers, present at meetings, and contribute to grant development, preparing for an independent academic career.

Qualifications

• PhD in virology, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related biomedical discipline.
• Strong experience in mammalian cell culture and molecular/biochemical techniques.
• Experience in virology, innate immunity, inflammatory signaling, microscopy, or animal models is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to NIH-funded research projects in antiviral innate immunity.
• Utilize molecular biology, biochemistry, cell culture, virus infection models, and mouse models.
• Develop new research directions, publish first-author manuscripts, and assist in grant development.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular techniques

Biochemical techniques

Experimental design

Data analysis

Data presentation

Education

PhD

Job description

Posting Details

Job Title Research Associate

Requisition Number RE55766

Department Name 7H400:Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Gen

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 44

Salary Range $44,678-71,469/year

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education PhD

Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification None

Physical Requirements Required routine handling of light-weight objects up to 10 pounds, or some standing or walking for extended period

Shift Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm with some evenings and weekends as needed.

Job Summary

The Chattopadhyay Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our NIH -funded research program investigating antiviral innate immunity and inflammatory signaling. Our laboratory studies how interferon regulatory factors (IRFs), interferon-stimulated genes, and cellular signaling pathways regulate host responses to viral infection and inflammation.

The successful candidate will lead and contribute to research projects using molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, cell culture, viral infection models, and mouse models. Opportunities are available to develop new research directions, publish first-author manuscripts, present findings at scientific meetings, and contribute to grant development. The position is particularly well suited for a PhD scientist seeking advanced research experience and preparation for an independent academic or biomedical research career.

Candidates with experience in cell culture and molecular/biochemical techniques are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in virology, innate immunity, immunology, or animal models is desirable but not required.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Mammalian cell culture; molecular and biochemical techniques; experimental design and data analysis; scientific record keeping; proficiency with standard data-analysis and presentation software. Experience with viral infection models, immunoblotting, qRT- PCR , microscopy, or animal models is preferred.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

No

Preferred Education/Experience

PhD in virology, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related biomedical discipline. Strong experience in mammalian cell culture and molecular or biochemical techniques is preferred. Experience in virology, innate immunity, inflammatory signaling, microscopy, or animal models is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong experimental, organizational, communication, and scientific problem-solving skills.

Deadline to Apply

09/23/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.