Ohio State University

Research Technician

Columbus Campus Full time

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Job Title:

Research Technician

Department:

Veterinary Medicine | Veterinary Biosciences

The Xu Lab at the Center for Retrovirus Research at The Ohio State University is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to support cutting-edge research in vaccine design and antibody therapeutic discovery. This is a long-term position (expected commitment of >3 years) for a dedicated and reliable laboratory professional. This position is subject to a 6-month probationary period, during which performance, technical skills, and laboratory fit will be evaluated prior to continuation of long-term appointment. The primary responsibility of this role is to support the laboratory’s protein production pipeline, with a strong focus on molecular cloning and recombinant protein purification. The successful candidate will play a key role in generating high-quality protein reagents that support our research, with opportunity to contribute to high-impact publications and translational research programs. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, perform, and optimize molecular cloning for recombinant protein and antibody expression constructs.  

  • Conduct protein expression and purification in bacterial, insect, and mammalian systems. 

  • Operate and maintain chromatography systems (e.g., ÄKTA/FPLC) for multi-step purification workflows.  

  • Optimize expression constructs and purification conditions to improve protein yield, purity, and stability.  

  • Maintain detailed, accurate, and reproducible experimental records.  

  • Manage laboratory reagents, inventory, and general laboratory organization.  

  • Provide consistent technical support to postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. 

Working Conditions:

  • Work is primarily performed in a laboratory setting with exposure to biological materials, chemical reagents, and potentially hazardous substances. 

  • Requires frequent use of standard laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, microscopes, and chromatography systems. 

  • Requires standing or sitting for extended periods while performing experiments and data analysis. 

  • Must follow strict biosafety and laboratory safety guidelines to prevent contamination and ensure personal and team safety. 

  • May require occasional lifting of moderately heavy equipment or supplies (up to 25 lbs). 

  • Standard working hours with some flexibility depending on experimental requirements; occasional extended hours may be necessary to complete time-sensitive procedures. 

Additional Information:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, or a related field. 

  • Hands-on experience in molecular cloning and recombinant protein expression/purification. 

  • Strong understanding of molecular biology and protein biochemistry principles. 

  • Excellent attention to detail and strong commitment to reproducibility and high-quality experimental work. 

  • Ability to work independently and as a reliable member of a collaborative team. 

  • Strong commitment to a long-term position (≥3 years) with stability and continuity in laboratory support work. 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication abilities.  

  • Ability to manage multiple ongoing tasks. 

  • Proven track record of successful laboratory work in protein expression, purification, and related molecular biology/biochemistry techniques.  

Target Salary Range: $15.86 - $20.74 per hour; commensurate with experience, internal equity, the unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications.

Location:

Goss Laboratory (0180)

Position Type:

Term (Fixed Term)

Scheduled Hours:

40

Shift:

First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check.  A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medical Center. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by visiting the Candidate Home section of this site. Please view your submitted applications by logging in and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions please review the frequently asked questions.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.