Research Laboratory Specialist Senior

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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your CV. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Michelle Hastings is hiring a PhD-level Research Laboratory Specialist to join an NINDS-funded project investigating RNA therapeutics for pediatric and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. The current focus of the project is on mRNA and antisense oligonucleotide drug discovery for treating lysosomal storage diseases. The lab uses cell and animal models of disease to test RNA drugs for the potential of treating disease. Applications of these approaches to other diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease are also investigated. 

Mission Statement

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?

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. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world’s most distinguished academic health systems.  In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.

What Benefits can you Look Forward to?

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

Responsibilities*

  • Responsible for the day-to-day operations the laboratory.  
  • Manages all phases of a large, complex research project with the principal investigator.
  • Works directly with the principal investigator on the development and the implementation of the research plan and development of research goals.
  • Responsible for conduct and support of experiments, functioning as a specialist or technical expert on one or more phases of the project(s).
  • Works with the PI to develop the necessary mathematical and/or computer models for analyzing experimental data.  
  • Expected to write significant portions of research proposals. 
  • Expected to act as liaison with outside agencies to acquire data and share research information.
  • Expected to make formal presentations.

Required Qualifications*

  • Master's degree in molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, cell biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, physiology, biophysics, or related field. 
  • 6+ years of research experience.
  • Experience in molecular and cellular techniques. 
  • Excellent data analysis and management skills.
  • First-author research publication in a peer-reviewed journal. 
  • Strong leadership and organization skills and ability to work in a team. 
  • Strong oral and written scientific communication skills.   
  • Fluent in English. 
  • Excellent reading, writing and communication skills. 
  • Technical requirements include skills in Cell and Molecular Biology. 
  • Ability to work well within a group setting.
  • Highly independent and self-motivated. 
  • Familiar with standard Windows Office software, spreadsheet applications, and graphics applications.
  • Must demonstrate strong leadership experiences. 
  • Ability to work and interact well with others of diverse backgrounds. 
  • Extreme attention to detail with good notebook keeping. 
  • Flexibility in working hours (long days and weekends if needed). 
  • Excellent organizational and planning skills. 
  • Ability to collect and analyze data. 

In order to be considered for this position the applicant must have met or will have met all the required qualifications prior to the start date of employment.

Desired Qualifications*

  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience or related field is preferred.
  • Experience with genetic mouse models, animal husbandry and behavior
  • Demonstrated project management skills, including ability to set priorities and excellent time management skills.

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/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.