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Microbiology Research Associate Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center ... Collaborate effectively across microbiology, chemistry, and diagnostic-development teams; mentor ...

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Lubbock ... Ph.D. in soil science, microbiology, environmental toxicology, or related fields, with a focus on ...

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Microbiology Research Associate information

What does a Microbiology Research Associate do?

A Microbiology Research Associate is responsible for conducting experiments and research to study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They assist in designing and performing laboratory tests, analyzing data, and maintaining accurate records of findings. Their work often contributes to advancements in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science. Additionally, they ensure lab safety and comply with regulatory guidelines while collaborating with other scientists and research teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiology Research Associate?

To thrive as a Microbiology Research Associate, you need a solid background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a life sciences field. Familiarity with tools such as PCR, spectrophotometry, aseptic technique, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable research results, maintaining laboratory safety, and contributing meaningfully to scientific projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Microbiology Research Associates in a laboratory setting?

Microbiology Research Associates often encounter challenges related to maintaining sterile conditions and avoiding contamination, which is crucial for generating reliable experimental results. They may also need to troubleshoot complex instruments or protocols when unexpected outcomes arise. Managing multiple projects simultaneously and coordinating with team members from different scientific backgrounds can require strong organizational and communication skills. Despite these challenges, the collaborative environment and opportunities for hands-on experimentation make this role both dynamic and rewarding.

Are microbiology research associates in high demand?

Microbiology research associates are in steady demand due to ongoing research in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology sectors. Employment opportunities often require laboratory skills, knowledge of microbiological techniques, and relevant certifications, with job growth expected to align with scientific research trends.

What qualifications do you need to be a microbiology research associate?

A microbiology research associate typically needs a bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, or a related field. Laboratory skills, familiarity with microbiological techniques, and attention to detail are essential; some positions may require a master's degree or relevant certifications. Experience with laboratory equipment and data analysis is also beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology Research jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Microbiology Research jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Research Associate jobs in Texas?

For Microbiology Research Associate jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Research Associate jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiology Research Associate jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Microbiology Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Microbiology Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Research Associate job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Bryan, TX • On-site


Texas A&M University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

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Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Agency
Texas A&M University Health Science Center
Department
Microbial Pathogenesis And Immunology
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Bryan, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
Our Commitment
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.
Who we are
As one of the fastest-growing academic health centers in the nation, Texas A&M Health encompasses five colleges and numerous centers and institutes working together to improve health through transformative education, innovative research and team-based health care delivery.
What we want
The Postdoctoral Research Associate, under general supervision, is responsible for conducting research into their field of expertise. The Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Cirillo Laboratory at Texas A&M will engage in research to advance the development of Reporter Enzyme Fluorescence (REFtb), a rapid tuberculosis diagnostic platform based on the Mycobacterium tuberculosis beta-lactamase BlaC and fluorogenic substrate chemistry. This position focuses on developing and optimizing diagnostic assays, with particular emphasis on reagent formulation, enzyme kinetics, and fluorogenic-probe evaluation. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will collaborate closely with Dr. Jeffrey D. Cirillo, laboratory members, and partners in engineering and chemistry to integrate protein biochemistry, analytical methods, molecular microbiology, and quantitative data analysis. These efforts will improve assay sensitivity, selectivity, stability, and performance in clinically relevant sample matrices.
What you need to know
Please Note: Ability to work in a biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) environment with potential exposure to bacterial agents and biohazards. This position is grant funded; future employment may be contingent upon future funding.
Travel: This position may require travel.
Schedule: This position may require work beyond normal office hours and/or work on weekends.
Responsibilities:
Research
  • Under general supervision, is responsible for conducting research into their field of expertise.
  • Design, execute, and interpret experiments supporting development and optimization of REFtb diagnostic reagents and workflows.
  • Express, purify, quantify, and characterize BlaC and related beta-lactamase proteins using recombinant systems and chromatographic methods.
  • Conduct steady-state and inhibition enzyme-kinetics studies, including determination and analysis of kinetic parameters such as Km, kcat, and Ki.
  • Evaluate the activity, selectivity, and performance of fluorogenic BlaC substrates, including comparison with non-target beta-lactamases such as TEM-1, CTX-M, and KPC.
  • Apply biochemical and kinetic results to guide substrate selection, probe design, buffer optimization, reagent formulation, and stabilization strategies for point-of-care or field-deployable use.
  • Develop and validate assays in relevant matrices, including sputum, urine, stool, or other clinical and environmental samples, as appropriate to project goals.

Lab Specific Duties
  • Use analytical techniques, including FPLC and HPLC where applicable, to support protein purification, reagent characterization, and formulation development.
  • Maintain accurate records; analyze and present quantitative datasets; prepare figures, reports, protocols, manuscripts, and conference materials.
  • Contribute to structural or mechanistic studies of BlaC and BlaC-substrate/inhibitor interactions when useful for structure-guided diagnostic development.

Presentations
  • Prepares presentation materials on research topic that may be presented to small and/or large groups.
  • Actively participates in the preparation of required technical progress reports to research sponsors.

Mentoring
  • May assist, mentor, and/or supervise student researchers and/or graduate students who are working on research related to the project.
  • Collaborate effectively across microbiology, chemistry, and diagnostic-development teams; mentor trainees working on related projects.

Qualifications
Required Education
  • Appropriate PhD in biochemistry, chemistry, chemical biology, structural biology, molecular biology, microbiology, or a closely related field.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong demonstrated expertise in biochemistry or chemistry, with the ability to independently design and execute rigorous experimental studies.
  • Experience in protein expression and purification and in biochemical characterization of proteins or enzymes.
  • Experience with enzyme kinetics, quantitative data analysis, and interpretation of biochemical assays.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and a record of productive scientific work, including publications or manuscripts in preparation.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing constructively to a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.
  • Experience with beta-lactamases, hydrolases, or other enzyme systems relevant to small-molecule substrate or inhibitor development.
  • Experience in fluorogenic probe design, fluorescence-based assay development, imaging-probe chemistry, or diagnostic/point-of-care technology development.
  • Experience with reagent formulation, stability testing, lyophilization, or development of assays for field or resource-limited settings.
  • Experience with FPLC, HPLC, SDS-PAGE, protein quantification, and related analytical techniques.
  • Experience with protein co-crystallization, X-ray crystallography, or structural analysis of enzyme-ligand complexes.
  • Familiarity with assay validation in complex biological matrices and with experimental design for analytical sensitivity, selectivity, precision, and reproducibility.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent verbal and written skills.
  • Presentation skills.
  • Analytical skills.
  • Attention to detail.

Why Texas A&M University?
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.
  • Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and 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
  • Professional Development: All employees have access to free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more
  • Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee
  • Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered, or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application.
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/Veterans/Disability Employer.


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