Job Summary

Highly motivated individual sought for a study manager/research technician position in a basic/translational research laboratory in the Department of Surgery. The candidate will work closely with the PI and senior technicians in a funded research effort that studies molecular and cellular mechanisms of adipose tissue biology with the goal of developing novel therapy for metabolic diseases including diabetes. We utilize sophisticated 2D and 3D human and murine in vitro cell culture models, advanced cell imaging and analysis, bulk and single cell RNA sequencing, and murine in vivo adipocyte/adipose tissue transplant/xenograft models to study adipocyte-matrix interactions in artificial and tissue-derived 3D culture systems, with both in vitro and in vivo applications. We are a tight-knit, dedicated group with a track record of long-term employment, fostering academic careers, and campus-wide collaborations. Graduated scientific independence and incentives possible based on experience and productivity. We have a track record of technicians in this role proceeding on to graduate or medical school.

Responsibilities*

Perform molecular and cellular biology bench research applied to human and mouse tissue samples, including but not limited to 2D and 3D cell culture, QRTPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, advanced microscopy, and gel electrophoresis. Some animal (mouse) research required, including mouse breeding, sacrifice, dissection, surgery. Independence in bench science duties will be provided commensurate with experience and abilities.
Coordinate human tissue sample procurement, including processing, storage, and documentation of human tissue samples.
Manage IRB documentation for human subject enrollment and tissue processing.
The candidate will participate in management and maintenance of regulatory and logistic aspects of laboratory functioning, including but not limited to maintaining accurate data logs, supervising reagent ordering, lab maintenance, being responsible for overall smooth functioning of laboratory and regulatory compliance with OSEH, IACUC, IRB, Radiation Safety.

Required Qualifications*

High School diploma or Associate's Degree required.
1-3 years of lab research experience preferred, will consider entry-level or more experienced candidates.
Familiarity with Excel, Word, PowerPoint required.
Applicant must be hard working, highly motivated, well organized, able to work with minimal supervision, with strong quantitative skills, an ability to work efficiently, follow instructions, and maintain a reliable work schedule. Flexibility in work hours is required, including some early AM/late PM/evening/weekend work.
Applicant must have excellent oral and written English communication skills, effective judgment and problem-solving skills, an ability to work collegially as a team member with a wide variety of co-workers, efficient multi-tasking skills, and meticulous attention to detail.

Desired Qualifications*

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, or closely related field preferred.
Experience with bench research desirable, especially human and murine cell culture, mouse handling/dissection, QRTPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, microscopy, desirable.
Experience with adipose tissue/adipocyte culture techniques and biologic assays highly desirable. Experience with IRB management and coordination of human tissue collection among clinicians and researchers desirable.
Familiarity with statistical analysis and data presentation preferred, including Graphpad Prism, and other statistical software.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Background Screening

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.

Application Deadline

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.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.