Research Lab Technician

Carolina for social mobility by The Wall Street Journal — helping first-generation and lower-income students find paths to prosperity. Designated an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, UNCG is a community-engaged research institution with a portfolio of more than $67M in research and creative activity. The University's 2,600 staff help create an annual economic impact for the Piedmont Triad region in excess of $1B.

Primary Purpose of the Organizational Unit:

The Department of Biology at UNCG is committed to providing excellent and comprehensive instruction at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. We offer a full range of courses to students pursuing a degree in Biology or Medical Technology, as well as to non-biology majors interested in the biological sciences. Biology majors have many options available to them, including the option to pursue degree concentrations in Biotechnology, Environmental Biology, or Human Biology. Biology students are encouraged to gain research experience through independent study with a faculty member, and to develop strong communication skills with writing- and speaking- intensive lecture and laboratory courses.

Position Summary:

The Brantley Lab is seeking a Research Technician who is passionate about basic science and being a reliable, collaborative member of an academic research team. Research in the Brantley Lab uses quantitative imaging and genetic approaches in insect embryos (Drosophila and Tribolium species) to understand how cells make decisions during early embryonic development. The Research Technician will play an important role in the day-to-day research of the lab, with responsibilities including molecular biology, insect husbandry, microscopy, data analysis, and general laboratory organization. We are looking for someone with a strong foundation in basic molecular biology techniques who can carry out laboratory work carefully, independently, and reproducibly. Prior experience with insect model systems or microscopy is not required, and training will be provided in these areas.

This position also offers opportunities for scientific and technical growth based on the candidate's interests. A technician who is interested in becoming more intellectually involved in research projects will have opportunities to learn advanced microscopy and quantitative image analysis, contribute to experimental design and troubleshooting, develop new methods, and analyze and interpret data. The Brantley Lab is a collaborative research environment that includes undergraduate and graduate students. The ideal candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, maintaining a well-organized and productive laboratory environment, and sharing their technical expertise with other lab members.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field; 2+ years of hands-on experience in a research laboratory environment; demonstrated proficiency with standard molecular biology techniques, including PCR, DNA extraction, cloning, bacterial culture, preparation of media and solutions, and basic sterile technique.
• Ability to independently follow established protocols and maintain accurate laboratory records.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Biology or a related field; prior experience with Drosophila, Tribolium, or other invertebrate model systems is a plus but not required; experience with microscopy or image analysis software (e.g., Fiji/ImageJ) is a plus but not required; strong organizational, analytical, and computer skills.
• Ability to manage multiple ongoing laboratory tasks and maintain accurate research records.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative, communicate effectively, and work proactively in a collaborative research environment; interest in learning new experimental and quantitative approaches.

Recruitment Range:

$45,000 - $50,000

Org #-Department: Biology - 12204

Job Open Date: 09/15/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

FTE: 1.000

Type of Appointment: Time Limited

If time-limited, please specify end date for appointment.: Start Date: November 1, 2026 End Date: July 31, 2029 (with chance to continue if funding is there, but funded through that date for now)

Number of Months per Year: 12

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Percentage Of Time: 20%

Key Responsibility: Molecular/cell biology techniques

Essential Tasks:

• Cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, & PCR.

Percentage Of Time: 20%

Key Responsibility: Administrative

Essential Tasks:

• Record-keeping of protocols and results.

Percentage Of Time: 20%

Key Responsibility: Lab Support

Essential Tasks:

• Routine lab support (insect husbandry, media/chemical prep).

Percentage Of Time: 10%

Key Responsibility: Maintain Equipment

Essential Tasks:

• Equipment operation and maintenance.

Percentage Of Time: 10%

Key Responsibility: Analyze and collect data

Essential Tasks:

• Imaging and data analysis (microscopy-based data collection, image analysis).

Percentage Of Time: 10%

Key Responsibility: Compliance

Essential Tasks:

• Lab Safety compliance.

Percentage Of Time: 10%

Key Responsibility: Collaboration, communication, and training

Essential Tasks:

• Collaboration, communication, and training new lab members.

Physical Effort:

Hand Movement-Repetitive Motions, Hand Movement-Grasping, Holding, Finger Dexterity, Vision-Skilled Trades, Reading, Writing, Eye-hand coordination, Vision-Color Distinction, Vision-Preparing/Analyzing figures, Vision-Visual inspection, Vision-Measuring/Assembling at distance close to eye, Hearing, Talking, Standing, Sitting, Walking, Lifting-0-30 lbs., Lifting-30-60 lbs., Pushing/Pulling, Climbing-Stairs, Bending, Squatting, Reaching

Work Environment:

Inside, Ventilation ConditionsDust, Ventilation ConditionsFumes, Ventilation ConditionsChemicals, Ventilation ConditionsGases, Exposure to potential Hazardous Conditions, Chemical Spills, Use of Respirator