Research Technician - SHUKLA Lab

University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Tuition benefits

Internal training

Paid time off

Job summary

The Shukla Lab at the University of Texas at Dallas is seeking a research technician to join a program studying membrane roles in neurodegeneration, aging, and cancer. You will contribute to projects spanning membrane biophysics, biochemistry, and cell biology, while supporting lab operations in a collaborative environment.

Ideal candidates have training in molecular biology, biochemistry, or cell biology, with hands-on experience in cloning, protein expression/purification, and data analysis.

Qualifications

• Must have High School graduation or equivalent with at least six months of research experience.
• Preferred Master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field with 1–2 years of hands‑on lab experience, or Bachelor’s degree with substantial lab experience.
• Experience with molecular cloning and recombinant protein expression and purification.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology experiments, including cloning, protein expression, and protein purification.
• Conduct biochemical and biophysical assays under supervision.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and assist with data analysis.
• Assist with lab organization, including reagent stocks and ordering supplies.
• Support laboratory safety compliance and help establish SOPs.
• Provide technical support to trainees and maintain a collaborative lab environment.

Skills

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Cell biology

Cloning

Protein purification

Fluorescence microscopy

Data analysis

Laboratory safety

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology/biochemistry/cell biology

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Fluorescence microscope

Recombinant protein expression

Job description

Job Summary

The Shukla Lab at the University of Texas at Dallas is seeking a research technician to join a new research program studying the role of biological membranes in neurodegeneration, aging, and cancer.

Our work integrates membrane biophysics, protein biochemistry, and cell biology to uncover how membrane damage and repair processes influence cellular function and disease progression. We combine biochemical reconstitution, quantitative fluorescence microscopy, and cell-based approaches to study membrane-associated mechanisms at molecular and cellular scales.

We are seeking a motivated scientist with strong training in molecular biology, biochemistry, or cell biology. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research projects while also supporting laboratory operations in a collaborative and intellectually engaging research environment. We are looking for individuals who are curious, rigorous, and collaborative.

Members of the Shukla Lab are encouraged to think critically about experiments, engage in scientific discussion, and contribute ideas that help shape ongoing research. Early members of the lab will play an important role in helping establish experimental platforms and building a collaborative scientific environment.

The initial appointment will be for one year but can be renewed based on performance and fit within the lab.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology experiments, including cloning, protein expression, and protein purification.
• Conduct biochemical and biophysical assays under the guidance of the PI and other lab members.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and assist with data analysis.
• Assist with laboratory organization, including maintaining reagent stocks, ordering supplies, and coordinating shared resources.
• Support laboratory safety compliance and help establish standard operating procedures.
• Provide technical support to trainees and contribute to maintaining a collaborative and inclusive lab environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education: Must have High School graduation or equivalent and at least six months of experience in scientific research work. Working knowledge of laboratory equipment, accurate data handling, and ability to work in hazardous environments when required.
• Preferred Education: Master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field with 1–2 years of hands‑on laboratory experience, or Bachelor’s degree in a related field with substantial laboratory experience.
• Preferred Experience: Experience with molecular cloning and recombinant protein expression and purification.
• Preferred Skills:
  • Experience working with membrane proteins or membrane‑associated systems.
  • Familiarity with fluorescence microscopy or quantitative biochemical assays.
  • Previous research experience in membrane biology, protein biochemistry, or cell biology.
  • Demonstrated technical skills in molecular biology, protein purification, or biophysical techniques.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, fast‑paced research environment.
• Security Qualification: Ability to maintain the security or integrity of critical infrastructure.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Laboratory environment.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Tuition Benefits
• Internal Training
• Medical insurance – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full‑time employees
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Long and short‑term disability
• Retirement Plan Options
• Paid time off
• Paid Holidays

UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.

For more information, visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/.

Equal Employment Opportunity

All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.

The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.