Research Technologist II
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Research Technologist II to support NIH-funded research focused on innate immunity and host-pathogen interactions in the Shames Laboratory, part of the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology at Michigan State University.
About the role
The successful candidate will develop and execute an independent research project within the framework of the laboratory's funded aims, contribute to day-to-day laboratory operations, manage transgenic and knockout mouse colonies, and maintain compliance with NIH Data Management and Sharing Plans, animal use protocols, and institutional biosafety requirements. This position requires a high degree of independence and includes responsibility for the mentorship and training of junior laboratory personnel. Work is conducted in a BSL-2 laboratory environment, and the candidate must complete all required institutional biosafety and animal handling training. Some flexibility in scheduling may be required to support time-sensitive experiments.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute an independent research project aligned with the laboratory’s funded aims
- Contribute to day-to-day laboratory operations
- Manage transgenic and knockout mouse colonies
- Maintain compliance with NIH Data Management and Sharing Plans, animal use protocols, and institutional biosafety requirements
- Mentor and train junior laboratory personnel
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, or a related field
- Six months to one year of related and progressively responsible work experience in microbiology, biology, or a related field, including molecular cloning, microbiological assays, tissue culture, and mouse infection models (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)
- Willingness to work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment and complete required institutional biosafety and animal handling training
Qualifications
The ideal candidate holds a B.S. or M.S. in microbiology or a closely related field and brings at least 1.5 years of research experience, including:
- Demonstrated 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.
Health Risks
- Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue, and other body fluids, as well as materials covered under Universal Precautions
- Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue
This is a limited-term position funded for one year from the date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.