Description

Summary

An exciting opportunity is available in the Pisu Lab at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center for a Laboratory Supervisor I to lead hands-on experimental research on Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and macrophage biology. This position serves as the senior technical expert in a growing program focused on defining how macrophage subsets influence host-pathogen interactions and vaccine responses.

The Laboratory Supervisor I will independently perform advanced molecular, cellular, and microbiological experiments, including cloning, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, RNA/NGS library preparation, flow cytometry, confocal and fluorescence microscopy, and protein assays (Western blot, ELISA, Olink). The role includes macrophage culture, bacterial and viral work under BSL-2 and BSL-3 containment, and murine infection studies in close coordination with the PI.

The successful candidate will generate publication-quality data, assist in manuscript and grant preparation, and train new personnel in molecular and microbiological techniques. Experience with mouse handling, breeding, and generation of knockout or Cre-lox strains is preferred. This is a fully research-oriented position suited for candidates seeking to apply deep experimental expertise in an infectious-disease and immunology context.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated proficiency in aseptic technique, handling of infectious materials, and in vitro cultivation of mammalian cells, including macrophages.

• Experience with molecular and microbiological assays such as cloning, PCR/qPCR, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and protein quantification (Western blot, ELISA, Olink).

• Familiarity with immunological and cell-based assays, including flow cytometry, cell sorting, and microscopy (fluorescence and confocal).

• Experience in bacterial culture and maintenance under BSL2 and/or BSL3 containment.

• Knowledge of animal infection models, including mouse handling, infection, and tissue collection under IACUC-approved protocols.

• Competence with data acquisition and analysis software (GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, R, or equivalent).

• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills. Ability to follow complex experimental protocols and maintain accurate records.

SPECIAL REQUIRED ABILITY FOR INCUMBENTS WHO HAVE CONTACT OR EXPOSURE TO ANIMALS ORANIMAL TISSUES:

Ability to complete and pass successfully the required occupational health screening referenced in the University's Animal Handler Health Surveillance Program on an annual basis.

Required Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Biological Science or equivalent and three years of experience in a biomedical research facility

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. Degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in a biomedical research laboratory, preferably in tuberculosis or infectious disease research.
• Demonstrated proficiency with BSL3-level work and compliance with biosafety and animal protocols.
• Experience with murine work, including breeding, colony management, and generation of knockout or Cre-lox strains.
• Prior experience with dual RNA-seq, NGS library preparation, or other high-throughput molecular assays.