Research Laboratory Technician Associate

About the Role

The Division of Rheumatology is seeking a highly motivated, full-time Research Technician to support translational research focused on autoimmune diseases, with an emphasis on systemic sclerosis. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative research environment and contribute to a wide range of molecular, cellular, and animal studies aimed at understanding disease mechanisms and developing new therapeutic approaches.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and culture primary cells and established cell lines for laboratory experiments.
• Perform RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, and quantitative real-time PCR.
• Assess protein expression and signaling pathways using western blot analysis.
• Maintain rodent colonies and assist with in vivo animal studies.
• Conduct immunofluorescence, immunohistochemical, and histological staining of cells and tissues.
• Acquire and analyze microscopy images using fluorescence microscopy.
• Prepare samples and perform ELISA assays, including operation of plate readers and data analysis.
• Assist with data collection, organization, and interpretation.
• Collaborate with laboratory members on research projects, help train new personnel, and mentor undergraduate students.
• Contribute to laboratory organization, equipment maintenance, and general laboratory operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related scientific field.
• Hands-on experience with rodent handling, cell culture, histology, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, qRT-PCR, and western blotting.
• Experience performing ELISA assays and working with standard molecular biology techniques.
• Proficiency in data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism and ImageJ, as well as Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research team.

About Michigan Medicine

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations, and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research, and technology development. Our mission is guided by Strategic Principles and includes patient care, education, and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. It is comprised of over 30,000 employees, with a vision to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world’s most distinguished academic health systems.

Benefits

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage effective on your very first day.
• 2:1 match on retirement savings.

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.