Research Lab Specialist Associate

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and microbiology experiments, including PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid preparation, and bacterial transformation.
• Maintain bacterial strains, plasmids, reagents, and organized sample inventories.
• Prepare bacterial cultures, media, buffers, and other routine laboratory reagents.
• Assist with mouse-colony documentation, genotype verification, and breeder-health record coordination.
• Support sample collection, processing, labeling, storage, and data organization.
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks, shared records, and inventory databases.
• Manage laboratory operations including ordering supplies, receiving shipments, and maintaining common lab spaces.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, biosafety, and animal research procedures.
• Collaborate with PIs, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, biomedical engineering, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• 1-3 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong organizational skills and careful attention to detail.
• Excellent record-keeping and communication skills.
• Ability to follow established protocols and work independently after training.
• Commitment to accurate documentation and safe laboratory practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with cloning, genotyping, and BSL-2 laboratory practices.
• Experience with mouse colony record keeping and research laboratory operations.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, flow cytometry, or animal research procedures.

Benefits

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage effective on your first day.
• 2:1 match on retirement savings.

About the Company

The Advanced Biotherapeutics Laboratory at the University of Michigan conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of synthetic biology, microbiology, immunology, and cancer biology. Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world, dedicated to improving the health of patients and communities through excellence in research, education, and patient care.