RBL5 Research Scientist

University of Pittsburgh

University of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Posted on Dec 10, 2025
RBL5 Research Scientist
Med-Center for Vaccine Research (CVR) - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (25006797)

This position will serve as a Research Scientist for the Center for Vaccine Research. The incumbent will provide research support related to the study of bunyaviruses including Rift Valley fever virus. Position will primarily involve in vitro work as well as manipulations and procedures on small animals (rat/mice) and potentially other species in a biosafety level 2 and 3 (BLS2/BSL3) environment. The individual must be able to independently design and troubleshoot experiments, quickly and reliably perform a myriad of biologic, virologic and immunologic assays, work hands-on with rodents and possibly other species including performance of intraperitoneal, intradermal, retroorbital, and foot pad injections, phlebotomy and necropsy. Experience working with rodents is strongly preferred. Incumbent will also be expected to provide scientific support to the PI through: 1) assisting with managing a subset of laboratory personnel (students, staff) including helping to oversee day to day project progress and lab activities; 2) assistance with writing and editing for grant applications, progress reports and support of scientific publications, 3) coordinating large collaborative projects and direct science to the appropriate scientists involved, 4) attending regular lab and scientific collaboration meetings to stay on top of all research activities that are going on in the lab, 5) representing PI in certain scientific contexts, 6) maintain laboratory compliance (FSAP, IACUC, IBC, IRB protocols), 7) manage multiple complex animal studies including ordering, transfers, and overall study coordination. This position requires successful completion of Department of Justice security clearance for work with Select Agents and Toxins, as required by Federal regulations as well as a Suitability Assessment for work with Tier I pathogens. This position is eligible for an RBL Premium Payment.

Job Summary

Conducts independent scientific research projects from inception to presentation. Prepares and crafts various documentations of research results into manuscripts, proposals, grant applications, and presentations. Trains undergraduates and research technicians. Manages laboratory policies and coordinates project development in collaboration with other specialists.

Essential Functions

Must be able to read and comprehend the English language and have normal visual ability with no hearing impairments. Must possess adequate manual dexterity to perform sensitive laboratory including work with a BSL3/ABSL3 environment.

Physical Effort

Position involves frequent movement to various places, occasionally involving heavy equipment and prolonged standing or sitting.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.

Assignment Category Full-time regular
Job Classification Staff.Research Scientist
Job Family Research
Job Sub-Family Research Science
Campus Pittsburgh
Minimum Education Level Required Professional Doctorate Degree
Minimum Years of Experience Required 5
Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience? No
Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Work Arrangement On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.
Hiring Range TBD Based Upon Qualifications
Relocation Offered No
Visa Sponsorship Provided No
Background Check For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check
Child Protection Clearances Not Applicable
Required Documents Resume, Cover Letter
Optional Documents Not Applicable