Research Lab Specialist Inter/Assoc (Term-Limited)

Job Summary The Misek laboratory at Chad Carr ? Pediatric Brain Tumor Center in the Department of Pediatrics is looking for an exceptional candidate for a Research Lab Specialist Intermediate position. The role offers the opportunity to join a new and growing laboratory focused on understanding the genetic dependencies of pediatric brain tumors and translating these findings into new therapeutic strategies. The lab uses functional genomics approaches, including CRISPR-based genetic screens and next-generation sequencing (NGS), to define novel vulnerabilities in pediatric brain tumors and other cancers. Responsibilities* Basic Functions And Responsibilities Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator to drive scientific research in the fields of cancer genomics and pediatric neuro-oncology. Participate in contributing to and/or leading research programs within the laboratory. Additionally, participate in supervising junior research staff. The successful candidate will maintain a core role in leading scientific projects as well as helping to build and manage the day-to-day operations of a new laboratory. The position is approximately 75% hands-on experimental research and 25% laboratory management (which includes training new lab personnel). The candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator to establish laboratory workflows, standard operating procedures, and experimental pipelines, and will be recognized for their scientific contributions through co-authorship on resulting publications. Duties And Responsibilities Independently perform experiments to support new and ongoing research efforts in the laboratory (75%), including:Establish NGS sample preparation workflowsConduct experiments using molecular biology and cell biology approachesAssist in writing/preparing manuscripts and grantsMaintain and establish new genetically engineered cancer modelsDesign, execute, and troubleshoot pooled CRISPR screens, including sgRNA library amplification, lentivirus production, transduction, genomic DNA extraction, and NGS library preparationPerform molecular cloning, PCR/qPCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, and cell-based drug sensitivity assaysPerform lab management duties including but not limited to ordering supplies, record keeping, managing bio/chemical safety protocols, scheduling undergraduate students (15%)Keep shared instruments in working order and arrange preventive maintenance and repairsMaintain inventories of reagents, cell lines, plasmids, and biological samples (including freezer databases)Write up and keep current the lab?s written protocols and safety documentationTrack EHS/IBC training and compliance requirements and help orient incoming lab membersAssist other team members in their projects (10%)Participate in laboratory meetingsResponsible for accurate recordkeepingTrain laboratory members in cell/molecular biology lab techniquesContribute to experimental design and troubleshooting, and propose improvements to protocols and workflowsAdditional responsibilities as the needs of the laboratory evolve Supervision Received The position reports to the Principal Investigator, who sets overall scientific direction and meets with the candidate on a regular schedule to review progress and priorities. Day-to-day work is largely self-directed; the candidate is expected to plan and carry out experiments with minimal oversight, troubleshoot problems as they arise, and decide when an issue should be escalated. Supervision Exercised The candidate will help train and coordinate the work of undergraduate researchers, rotation students, and newer members of the lab, and will oversee their adherence to laboratory protocols and safety practices. Required Qualifications* Bachelor?s degree in the biological sciences (e.g., molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology) or an equivalent combination of education and experience4-5 years? experience in a related field. A minimum of three years of hands-on wet-lab research experience beyond the undergraduate degree; time spent in a graduate program may be countedHands-on experience with mammalian tissue culture and working in a BSL-2 environmentPractical experience with core molecular techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, cloning, and immunoblottingExperience with, or a strong interest in learning, next-generation sequencing library preparationDemonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and meticulous record keepingAbility to work independently, manage multiple projects, and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environmentStrong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present data and explain protocols to colleagues at all levelsComfortable using standard office and data software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, GraphPad Prism or similar) for record keeping and data presentationSelf-motivated, dependable, and eager to acquire new technical skills Desired Qualifications* Advanced degree (MS or similar) in a relevant biological disciplinePrevious responsibility for laboratory operations, such as purchasing, inventory, equipment upkeep, or mentoring studentsExperience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, pooled genetic screens, and lentiviral productionExperience with Illumina NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows (e.g., DNA-seq, RNA-seq, sgRNA amplicon sequencing)Experience with cancer biology, functional genomics, or neuro-oncology researchExperience with flow cytometry and cell-based compound screening assaysRodent handling experience, particularly with intracranial tumor xenograft modelsSome exposure to scripting or sequencing data analysis (R, Python, or Unix command line) Applicants should submit a CV and a brief cover letter describing previous research experience, interest in the position, and relevant technical experience. Contact information for references will be requested from finalists. 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. Underfill Statement This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate. Background Screening The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. 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 any time after the minimum posting period has ended. U-M EEO Statement The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.