Postbaccalaureate Scholars Program

The Catherine Othieno Sempa Memorial Post Baccalaureate Scholars Program engages talented college graduates from HBCUs and Puerto Rican universities in a comprehensive and immersive two-year program in immunology research. The program is designed to strengthen the field of academic research by inviting recent college graduates to gain knowledge, expertise, and skills inside and outside the lab.

Program Benefits Participants will be employed as a paid, full-time Research Technicians under the supervision and mentorship of a Ragon Institute Principal Investigator and/or designated Post-Doctoral Research Fellow. Participants will receive a competitive salary and benefits consistent with employment as a Research Technician at the Institute. In
addition, participants will engage in academic and professional development activities including:

• Development of an individualized training plan
• Training in scientific communication
• Participation in seminars and workshops
• Full participation in lab meetings and Ragon affinity groups and committee
• Graduate school preparation
• Travel sponsorship to a national conference
• Participants will also receive a $3,000 travel allowance.

Job Summary

Responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data. 

Candidates who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree have a grace period of six months from their hire date (up to 1 year if starting per diem) to provide degree equivalency verification.

Does this position require Patient Care? No

Essential Functions
-Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures. 

-Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines. 

-Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed. 

-Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results. 

-Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods. 

-Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports.

Qualifications

Education
Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required


Experience
Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment 1-2 years preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
- Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.
- Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.
- Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges.

Additional Job Details: Program Eligibility

Have U.S. citizenship or permanent residency and be eligible to work in the US. 

Completed a college or university degree (of four or more years duration) no more than one year before the start of the program. 

Majored in biological sciences or biological engineering. 

Attained a minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale. Previously participated in scientific research. 

Demonstrated interest in pursuing a graduate degree in a research field (M.S., M.A, Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.). 

This program is not designed for students primarily interested in clinical practice

This program is open to individuals from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and students from the University of Puerto Rico.

Important Dates:
Application deadline: February 15, 2026
Start date: June-August 2025