Research Technician in Space Biology

Research Technician — Spaceflight Microbiome Biology The Samuel Lab at the Baylor College of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated research technician to support experimental studies on host–microbiome interactions in the context of spaceflight. Research will use C. elegans as a model system to investigate how microgravity and the spaceflight environment alter microbial colonization, host physiology, and gene expression, contributing to post-flight analyses from NASA ISS missions (CBIOMES).ProjectPost-flight analyses of NASA microbiome impacts on spaceflight hosts. In collaboration with NASA and space biology partners, this project characterizes how microgravity reshapes host–microbiome interactions using C. elegans flown on ISS missions and post-flight omics datasets. Findings inform astronaut health and broader questions about environmental stress, gut physiology, and microbial resilience.ResponsibilitiesPrepare and conduct laboratory experiments on host–microbiome interactions using elegansPerform bacterial colonization assays and microbiome profilingCollect, compile, and analyze experimental dataMaintain precise and thorough documentation of experimental resultsAssist with sample preparation and processing for post-flight NASA mission analysesOrder and manage laboratory supplies and equipmentEnter data into research databases and assist in preparation of lab reportsMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, genetics, or a closely related field, or equivalent education and work experience1+ years of laboratory research experiencePreferred QualificationsC. elegans or other model organism geneticsMicrobiology, molecular biology, or cell biology laboratory skillsExperience with microbiome profiling or gnotobiotic culture systemsFamiliarity with omics data collection or basic bioinformaticsAbility to work independently and collaboratively in a team environmentStrong written and verbal communication skills