What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Supervisor I position at Tulane University?
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.
Compensation Information
This position is classified as "exempt, salaried" and is assigned to pay grade 25. Tulane offers a variety of options to enhance your health and well-being so that you may enjoy more out of life now and in the future. Learn more about Life at Tulane as well as our Benefits and Pay. See our Candidate Resources to learn more about our hiring process and what to expect.