Research Specialist II

Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station; College Station (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Prescription drug coverage

Dental

Vision

Life and AD&D

Flexible spending accounts

Long-term disability

Job summary

Texas A&M University’s Biology Department seeks a Research Specialist II to support daily laboratory operations and research activities. You will perform routine experiments, manage the mouse colony, document data, and coordinate lab duties.

The role includes training personnel, supervising students/researchers, and ensuring protocol compliance. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent education/experience.
• Six years of related research experience.
• Ph.D. in Biology, Neuroscience or related field is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of standard lab practices and safety requirements.
• Ability to train and supervise personnel and manage priorities.

Responsibilities

• Performs molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and RT-qPCR.
• Conducts histological techniques and mouse surgical procedures and imaging.
• Maintains lab records and vendor information; coordinates duties.
• Coordinates onboarding of personnel and assists with travel and protocol management.
• Ensures compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Molecular biology

Data documentation

Laboratory supervision

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field

PhD in Biology/Neuroscience or related field

Tools

PCR

RT-qPCR

Histology

Animal handling

Job description

Job TitleResearch Specialist II Agency Texas A&M University Department Biology Proposed Minimum SalaryCommensurate Job LocationCollege Station, Texas Job TypeStaff

Job Description

Here’s a Glimpse of the Job The Research Specialist II will support the research and day-to-day operations of the laboratory. The Research Specialist II will perform routine laboratory experiments and collects and documents research data, manages the laboratory mouse colony and coordinates laboratory operations. The select candidate will train laboratory personnel in established procedures, assigns and coordinates laboratory duties, and provides day-to-day supervision and direction to students and research fellows.

Responsibilities

• Performs molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and RT-qPCR.
• Performs histological techniques, mouse surgical procedures and imaging and physiological recordings.
• Conducts behavioral assays and collects and records experimental data.
• Performs imaging and physiological recordings.
• Maintains laboratory vendor information, accounts, and administrative records.
• Assigns and coordinates routine laboratory duties and responsibilities.
• Assists with onboarding of laboratory personnel and maintains personnel and emergency contact records.
• Assists with conference and research-related travel arrangements.
• Assists with preparation, submission, and maintenance of animal research protocols and related documentation.
• Ensures compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinates laboratory maintenance and ensures routine equipment maintenance, calibration, and service are completed and documented.
• Manages laboratory purchasing.
• Coordinates with vendors, obtains and evaluates quotes, negotiates pricing, and arranges equipment demonstrations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Six years of related experience in a specialized and relevant field of research.
• A well-qualified candidate for this position will also possess: Ph.D. in Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory practices, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Knowledge of research techniques.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to perform laboratory procedures and operate research equipment according to established protocols.
• Ability to organize and coordinate laboratory activities and priorities.
• Ability to train and provide direction to laboratory personnel.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong communication skills.

Salary

Salary: Commensurate

Special Note

Due to this position’s salary having all or a portion of it being funded by grants or contracts, the continuing salary and overall employment is contingent upon the availability of these funds in the future.

Benefits

• Medical
• prescription drug
• dental
• vision
• life and AD&D
• flexible spending accounts
• long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time

Employment Environment

Why Texas A&M University? Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service. The Department of Biology at Texas A&M University is responsible for research and teaching within the vast disciplines of the biological sciences, from molecular cell biology to ecology and evolutionary biology. Our faculty perform cutting-edge research in a wide array of biological sciences in the laboratory and in the field. Our graduate research programs prepare scientists for careers in academia, industry and government and enhance our understanding of the central role of biological systems in the global environment. Our undergraduate students gain a firm foundation in modern biological sciences to prepare them for a multitude of careers that depend on a solid understanding of biology. To learn more, please visit us at https://www.bio.tamu.edu/. We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration. Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.

Eligibility & Compliance

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. The Texas A&M University System is one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation, with a statewide network of twelve universities, eight state agencies, a comprehensive health science center, Texas A&M-Fort Worth and Texas A&M-RELLIS. The A&M System is committed to providing an educational and work environment that is conducive to the personal and professional development of each employee.

Each member institution provides equal opportunity and access to all students, employees and prospective employees.

External Applicants - Applicants not currently employed by a Texas A&M System member may Search Postings and apply for positions within one or more A&M System members by selecting the job posting. Internal Applicants - This site lists job postings throughout The Texas A&M University System. It is intended for applicants not currently employed by a member of the system. Current employees should apply for jobs on the Internal Career site. The Texas A&M System is an Equal Opportunity/ Veterans/ Disability Employer.