Lab Specialist

Job Summary

The Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Utah invites applications for an immediate Sr. Lab Specialist position in Dr. Paul S. Bernstein's laboratory. Transnational research focuses on the role of nutrition to treat and prevent retinal diseases throughout the lifespan. The Bernstein Lab, situated on the upper campus of the University of Utah, benefits from extensive access to state-of-the-art core facilities and resources, as well as a vibrant collaborative research community.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

• Applies independent judgment in order to assess the validity of data collected and to interpret results.
• Devises, refines and implements new techniques or modifies existing processes by utilizing advanced knowledge.
• Directs the daily operation of the lab including hiring and training subordinates.
• Prepares, operates and maintains laboratory and experimental testing equipment.
• May coauthor research papers and publications.
• May represent the University by presenting research and findings to peers at conventions and conferences.

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required: Nearly Continuously: Office environment. Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals). Seldom: Exposure to animals.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required: Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking. Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting. Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry or other scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); two years full-time laboratory experience; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required. Working knowledge of advanced scientific techniques and procedures as well as the ability to make statistical calculations, analyze results, prepare reports and perform specialized tests also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

• A Bachelor's or Master's in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Cell Biology or a related field with at least two years of laboratory experience is required.
• The candidate should be a team player, possess excellent analytical and critical thinking skills and have strong oral/written communications skills.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in human tissue dissection, managing a mouse colony, and working with sophisticated analytical instruments.
• Specific cellular and molecular biology skills include DNA/RNA isolation, cDNA cloning, PCR, qRT-PCR, mammalian cell culture (both primary cells and cell lines), Western blot analysis and cell-based assay development.
• Previous safety officer experience in a laboratory environment handling potentially infectious samples is desired.
• Strong organizational skills are expected.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN43034B

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Work Schedule Summary: Monday - Friday | 8:00am - 5:00pm

Department: 00870 - Ophthalmology-Research

Location: Campus

Pay Rate Range: $20.00 - $22.00

Close Date: 12/4/2025

Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/188500