Title: Research Assistant - Hourly

Employee Classification: Research Assistant-Hourly

Campus: University of North Texas - Health Science Center

Division: HSC-Provost & Exec VP

Sub Division-Department: HSC-CBTS-Office of the Dean

Department: HSC-Microbiology, Immunology & Genetics -302800

Job Location: Fort Worth

Salary: $27.50/hour

FTE: .48

Retirement Eligibility: Not Retirement Eligible

About Us - Values Overview:

Department Summary

There are twenty-five full-time faculty and two adjunct faculty members in the department; they have diverse research interests spanning molecular genetics, cellular immunology, microbiology, cancer and health disparities. Our research mission is supported by more than $9 million in federal grant funding. We foster a highly collaborative and collegial environment in which the faculty, trainees, and staff work together to advance innovative, cutting-edge scientific discovery related to human health.
The department provides high quality training for students interested in careers in biomedical research or medicine. The goals of our graduate program are (1) to provide a broad and sound education in microbiology, immunology and genetics of human disease and (2) to provide rigorous research training in an environment dedicated to advancing biomedical science. The department has numerous trainees including postdoctoral fellows, students earning DO/PhD, PhD and MS degrees. The trainees and faculty in the department are a cohesive group from diverse backgrounds which fosters scientific innovation and discovery. We support graduate training programs in genetics; cell biology, immunology and microbiology; and biochemistry and cancer biology. Our faculty and trainees also take full advantage of the tremendous breadth of expertise and knowledge across UNTHSC.

Position Overview

Perform modeling of protein-protein and protein-molecular interactions. Support applications of AI and machine learning to biological problems. Conduct comparative genomic studies of bacterial pathogens. Employ bioinformatic pipelines to analyze of microbial communities.

Minimum Qualifications

BS in Biology or Computer Science. Expertise in machine learning and basic programming.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to communicate effectively
Aptitude in bioinformatic techniques.
Experience in application of machine learning and AI to biological problems
Willingness to acquire competence in new techniques

Preferred Qualifications

Understanding of genetics, bioinformatics, and application of machine learning to biological problems. Experience with bacteriophage and bacterial pathogens a plus.

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Job Duties:

• Perform modeling of protein-protein and protein-molecular interactions.
• Support applications of AI and machine learning to biological problems. 
• Conduct comparative genomic studies of bacterial pathogens.
• Employ bioinformatic pipelines to analyze of microbial communities.

Physical Requirements:

• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Lifting and Moving objects up to 20 pounds.
• Lifting and moving objects up to 100 pounds or more.
• Moving self in various positions to perform tasks in tight and confined spaces.
• Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and the like.
• Lifting and Moving objects up to 50 pounds.
• Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
• Operating machinery and/or power tools.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.

Environmental Hazards:

• No adverse environmental conditions expected.
• Exposure to fumes or airborne particles.
• Low temperatures.
• Outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind.
• Work with toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Elevated temperatures.
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts or vibration.
• Noisy environments.
• Small and/or enclosed spaces.

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday; not to exceed 20 hours weekly

Driving University Vehicle:

No

Security Sensitive:

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions:

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted. 

Benefits:

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement:

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.