Research Technologist II

Michigan State University’s Shames Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology is seeking a motivated and experienced Research Technologist II to support NIH-funded research on innate immunity and host-pathogen interactions.

About the role

The successful candidate will develop and execute an independent research project aligned with the laboratory’s funded aims, contribute to daily laboratory operations, manage transgenic and knockout mouse colonies, and ensure compliance with NIH Data Management and Sharing Plans, animal-use protocols, and institutional biosafety requirements. The position requires a high degree of independence and includes mentorship and training of junior laboratory personnel. Work is conducted in a BSL-2 laboratory environment; all required biosafety and animal-handling training must be completed.

Responsibilities

• Design and perform experiments within the scope of the laboratory’s NIH-funded research program
• Maintain and manage transgenic and knockout mouse colonies
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations and ensure compliance with institutional and federal regulations
• Mentor and train junior laboratory staff
• Adhere to NIH Data Management and Sharing Plans and institutional biosafety protocols
• Participate in time-sensitive experiments that may require flexible scheduling

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, or a related field
• Six months to one year of progressively responsible experience in microbiology, molecular biology, or a related discipline, including molecular cloning, microbiological assays, tissue culture, and mouse infection models
• Willingness to work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment and complete all required biosafety and animal-handling training

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in microbiology or a closely related field
• At least 1.5 years of research experience
• Proficiency in aseptic technique, bacterial culture, and mammalian cell culture
• Experience handling and working with mice in a research setting
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., molecular cloning, Western blotting)
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and meticulous record-keeping
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively and to mentor junior personnel
• Experience with flow cytometry, microscopy/high-content imaging, and/or Python coding is a plus

Schedule

Standard 8 a.m.–5 p.m. schedule with occasional flexibility required for time-sensitive experiments.

Health Risks

• Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue, and other body fluids covered under Universal Precautions
• Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue

This is a limited-term position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.