Microbiome Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Research Associate I
Job Category
Staff & Executive - Healthcare
Department
NJMS - Microbiology
Overview
New Jersey's academic health center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care, and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University-New Brunswick and collaborating university wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network, and five centers and institutes that focus on cancer treatment and research, neuroscience, advanced biotechnology and medicine, environmental and occupational health, and health care policy and aging research.
Our faculty are teachers, clinicians, and scientists with unparalleled experience who advance medical innovation and provide patient care informed by the latest research findings. We offer an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research, and the full spectrum of allied health careers.
Our clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state-at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, including Piscataway; and at locations in Newark, Scotch Plains, Somerset, Stratford, and other locations. Clinical partners include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, Newark's University Hospital in Newark, and other affiliates.
Through this community of healers, scientists, and scholars, Rutgers is equipped as never before to transform lives.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Research Associate I in the Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics within the New Jersey Medical School (NJMS).
Under the direction of Principal Investigator, Research Associate I participates in the research of two major areas: (1) the characterization of viral insulin/IGF-1-like peptides (VILPs) and their effects on insulin/IGF signaling and cancer development, and (2) the role of the gut microbiome and microbiome-derived metabolites in Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease. Current projects include studying VILP interactions with insulin/IGF-1 receptors using in vivo and in vitro models, as well as examining molecular mimicry, specific bacterial species (e.g., Parabacteroides distasonis), and microbial metabolites in autoimmune disease pathogenesis using patient samples and mouse models.
Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, is responsible for the independent conduct of significant elements of ongoing research activities. Designs and conducts highly specialized and technical laboratory and animal-based research studies, analyzes experimental data, and contributes to research publications and grant applications.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:

• Performs various research and technical operations independently or as assigned, relating to investigatory activities of the laboratory, followed by appropriate reports, recommendations, and conclusions. Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Participates in the development of performance standards, selection of methodology and instrumentation, and coordination of analytical, molecular, cellular, immunological, and animal research functions to ensure conformance with the goals and objectives of the department.
• Conducts a continuous program of research and development regarding laboratory methodologies and instrumentation functions; evaluates and improves existing procedures to maintain current and effective research practices.
• Conducts complex laboratory and animal-based research to support federally funded studies related to viral insulin/IGF-like peptides (VILPs), microbiome research, autoimmune diseases, and cancer biology.
• Performs in vitro and in vivo experimental assays, including mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, viral transduction, gene expression analysis, flow cytometry, immunological assays, histology, microscopy, and advanced imaging techniques.

FLSA
Exempt
Grade
26S
Salary Details
Minimum Salary
74332.000
Mid Range Salary
89311.000
Maximum Salary
106121.000
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status
Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours
37.50
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.
Union Description
HPAE 5094
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment
Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility
ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience

• Ph.D. Degree or equivalent in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or a relevant science plus two (2) or more years of related research experience.

Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in in vivo mouse models of cancer, including experience with tumor implantation and therapeutic agent administration.
• Strong background in breast cancer cell biology, including cell culture and functional assays.
• Strong background in insulin/IGF signaling, including cell culture and functional assays
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., gene editing, gene expression analysis, viral transduction).
• Experience with flow cytometry for immune cell characterization.
• Competence in histological and imaging techniques for tissue analysis.
• Data analysis skills using standard statistical software (e.g., GraphPad Prism) .

Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to safely perform laboratory experiments.
• Standing, sitting, walking, talking, or hearing.
• No special vision requirements.
• Must be able to lift or exert force up to ten (10) pounds.
• Able to work with mice.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Laboratory/Animal Care Facility/Office environment.
• Moderate noise.

Special Conditions
Posting Details
Posting Number
26ST1114
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus
Newark (RBHS)
City
Newark
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement