Job Summary

Motivated individual sought for a part-time research technician position in a 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 fostering academic careers, and campus-wide collaborations. We have a track record of technicians in this role proceeding on to graduate or medical school.

This position is part-time and temporary. Hours per week and duration negotiable. We are considering candidates with a broad range of experience, from minimal to more experienced, salary will be based on experience.

Responsibilities*

• Based on experience, the candidate will perform molecular and cellular biology bench research applied to human and mouse tissue samples under direction of senior technicians and PI,  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.
• Digital analysis of confocal microscopy imaging data, including acquiring, digitally processing, and digitally quantifying images.  Preparation of figures from large datasets as directed by PI using various software packages.
• 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.

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, or closely related field required.
• Familiarity with various scientific software packages is highly desirable.  Facility with Excel, Word, PowerPoint required.  Familiarity with statistical analysis and data presentation and associated software preferred, including GraphPad Prism, and other statistical software.  Familiarity with R-Studio, Image-J, and ability to independently learn these and other software packages for scientific analysis of data is highly desirable.
• 1-3 years of lab research experience preferred, will consider entry-level or more experienced candidates.
• 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 helpful, 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*

• Past experience with microscopy (standard light, confocal) is helpful but not required.

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.