Research Lab Tech Inter/Assoc

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

The PMR Lifshitz lab is seeking Research Laboratory Technicians who will play a vital role in supporting the research team by conducting experiments, managing data, and updating protocols. They'll prepare research resources for upcoming studies, set up lab equipment, record information and maintain logs of experimental data, care for and handle mouse and rat research animals, perform behavioral testing and data collection/analysis. They'll be responsible for data curation, storage, and preliminary analysis.

• Prepare research resources for upcoming studies, including chemicals and disposable supplies. Set up lab equipment according to instructions and procedures. Schedule study elements according to multiple team members' schedules. Record information and maintain logs of experimental data. Responsible for record keeping associated with the research projects (photocopies, files, and record keeping).
• Care and handling of mouse and rat research animals. Behavioral testing, data collection, and analysis in rodents. Obtain and process biological samples (animal origin), tissue processing, and microscopy. Histology experiments: immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, quantification. Responsibility for data curation, storage, and preliminary analysis.
• Lifelong learning and reading of the scientific literature. Engagement with printed, online and video content to become a subject matter expert. Leverage learning for discussion and participation in meetings.
• Maintain detailed documentation of procedures and results. Maintain laboratory equipment and preparation of reagents. Communicate and report to study team. Additional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of rodent animal behavior, basic biology, care and handling.
• Knowledge of microscopes and histology laboratory techniques.
• Knowledge and experience in basic lab techniques detailed in job description.
• Ability to work and thrive in a team environment and possess a positive attitude. Willingness to make and report mistakes as part of learning.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Adept at basic computer software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and statistical and graphing programs (such as Prism, Adobe Photoshop, etc.).
• Good problem-solving, basic math, and quantitative and analytical skills.
• Able to critically review information and understand instructions and new concepts with minimal assistance.
• Willingness to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Courage to ask for advice and assistance in order to troubleshoot issues.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Focused and well-organized with attention to detail.

Intermediate: Bachelor’s degree with 2 or more years relevant laboratory experience.

Associate: HS Diploma or Assoc Degree with 0-2 years relevant laboratory experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in STEM field preferred.
• Working knowledge in neuroscience, pharmacology, and neuroendocrinology.
• Knowledge of basic scientific laboratory skills (e.g., pipetting, mixing chemical reagents, lab safety).
• Two or more years of animal handling with experience in rodent behavior.

This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.

The Research Laboratory Technician will play a vital role in supporting the research team by conducting experiments, managing data, and updating protocols. The position requires a detail-oriented individual with strong analytical and communication skills, capable of working independently and as part of a team.

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.