Research Assistant 1, Immunoengineering (Term)

The Chapman Lab in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Vanderbilt University is seeking a Research Assistant I (Term) to support research in vaccine and drug delivery design and immunoengineering. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to innovative, interdisciplinary research while gaining hands-on experience in molecular biology, immunology, and bioengineering. The successful candidate will assist with laboratory setup, perform experiments under supervision and independently, and help maintain daily lab operations.

NOTE: A Term position is a staff position that exists for a period longer than six months but is not expected to last beyond one year. Although a position may exist for a specified or indefinite period, staff who accept term positions are not guaranteed employment for the entire period; they are employed for indefinite periods within the limit of the appointment. There are no guarantees of continued employment, either within the term or when the term ends.

The Chapman Lab focuses on developing next-generation, B cell–targeted precision therapeutics and uncovering the molecular mechanisms that drive humoral immunity and autoimmunity. By integrating protein engineering, bioorthogonal chemistry, and immunological approaches, we design innovative therapies that selectively engage B cells to promote more effective treatments and improve health outcomes. Learn more at www.thechapmanlab.com

Duties and Responsibilities

Research and Experimental Support

• Perform and support in vivo studies in mice under supervision and, over time, independently.
• Animal handling, husbandry, colony management, injections, noninvasive imaging, necropsies, and preparation of samples for flow cytometry.
• Assist in the preparation, characterization, and testing of protein-based vaccines and therapeutic formulations.
• Independently conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques, including mammalian cell culture, ELISA assays for antibodies and cytokines.
• Document all experiments carefully and maintain accurate laboratory records.

Laboratory Operations and Administration

• Order and receive project-specific supplies and maintain inventory records.
• Assist with laboratory safety and compliance requirements, including protocol preparation and adherence to institutional and regulatory standards.
• Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and collaborative discussions to support research progress and professional development

Supervisory Relationships: This position does not have supervisory responsibility but may include opportunities to provide guidance to undergraduate researchers. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Principal Investigator.

Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in relevant scientific discipline, e.g. immunology, biochemistry, biomedical or chemical engineering, with 1-2 years of related experience OR a master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field with 0-2 years of experience is required.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and written communication skills.
• An ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable working with laboratory animals (mice) and willingness to complete required animal handling training.
• Excellent attention to detail, accuracy in data collection, and recordkeeping.
• Basic ability to troubleshoot and modify procedures, and to interpret and perform initial analyses of results
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant research environment

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

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