Lab Research Analyst Jobs in the USA at Duke University
Lab Research Analyst roles are among the most in-demand careers for life science professionals seeking hands-on research experience in world-class institutions. This Lab Research Analyst I position at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge virology and vaccine research while building a strong foundation for a long-term scientific career. Ideal for candidates exploring job opportunities for life science graduates, this role places you at the forefront of global health innovation.
About Duke University School of Medicine
Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is among the nation’s top medical schools and is consistently ranked sixth nationally. Duke Health comprises the School of Medicine, School of Nursing, Duke University Health System, and affiliated clinical entities, forming a world-class academic medical center dedicated to advancing human health through interdisciplinary collaboration, education, and research.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Laboratory Research Analyst I (Duke RBL Virology)
- Institution: Duke University School of Medicine
- Department: Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI) – Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL), Pathogens Unit
- Location: Durham, North Carolina, United States (27710)
- Work Arrangement: On-site
- Employment Type: Regular
- Personnel Area: Medical Center
- Requisition Number: 266607
About the Duke Human Vaccine Institute
The Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI) is a multidisciplinary research organization focused on basic, translational, and clinical research to develop innovative vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics for infectious diseases affecting global health.
The Duke Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) operates within DHVI and supports research programs requiring enhanced biosafety and security. RBL includes three collaborative research units—Immunology, Animal Modeling, and Pathogens—that provide shared resources, safety training, and access to containment environments for Duke faculty and collaborators.
Position Overview
The RBL Virology Unit is seeking a Laboratory Research Analyst I to support a multidisciplinary team focused on developing medical countermeasures and vaccines for emerging and re-emerging biothreats. The role involves independent experimental work, leadership of research projects, and responsibility for laboratory operations within high-containment environments.
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related scientific field
- Minimum of two years of laboratory experience, preferably in virology, microbiology, molecular biology, or a related discipline
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with computers
- Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior research experience in virology, microbiology, or immunology
Position Responsibilities
- Serve as project leader for existing and future research projects
- Independently design and execute assays involving viruses, bacteria, and host systems
- Support studies utilizing animal models, including pathogen preparation, titration, and downstream assays
- Maintain and troubleshoot critical laboratory equipment
- Write and contribute to the development of new laboratory protocols
- Perform complex laboratory assays under SOP-driven best practices
- Compile, analyze, and document primary and analyzed research data and final reports
- Train and mentor junior staff on laboratory techniques, safety, and standard practices, with emphasis on cell culture
- Serve as safety delegate for the Pathogens Unit, including training incoming personnel and maintaining compliance with Duke and DHVI safety policies
- Collaborate with the Pathogen Unit Director, Manager, Principal Investigators, and DHVI leadership to plan experiments and adjust laboratory procedures as needed
- Attend all required training sessions
- Manage assigned projects in full compliance with SOPs and safety protocols
- Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership
- Adhere to established data management procedures
Regulatory & Safety Requirements
- The successful candidate must be eligible for and willing to:
- Work with hazardous biological agents at BSL-2 and BSL-3
- Comply with vaccination requirements as required
- Complete U.S. Department of Justice screening for Select Agent registration
- Obtain Select Agent Tier 1 registration
- Achieve external certification for independent BSL-3 laboratory work
Compensation & Benefits
Anticipated Salary Range: USD $51,448 – $77,945 annually (Compensation determined based on role scope, experience, education, skills, internal equity, and market factors.)
Duke University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, generous paid time off, retirement programs with employer contributions, tuition assistance for employees and dependents, and a wide range of family-friendly and cultural programs.
