Job Summary
The Zuo Laboratory seeks a highly motivated full-time Research Technician to support translational research on innate immune function in lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), myositis, aortitis, sepsis, and COVID-19. The successful candidate will work closely with physicians, scientists, and trainees in a collaborative research environment. This role involves clinical sample processing, laboratory experiments, animal models, and data analysis, contributing to projects investigating the mechanisms of immune dysregulation and vascular complications in autoimmune diseases.
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*
- Clinical Research & Sample Processing:
- Retrieve patient blood samples from rheumatology and hematology clinics.
- Perform cell and plasma isolation, proper storage, and maintain meticulous inventory records.
- Assist in ongoing clinical studies, including:
- Accurate data collection and clinical database management.
- Subject identification and recruitment.
- Regulatory document maintenance (IRB compliance, consent forms, study protocols).
- Troubleshoot and suggest improvements to streamline existing protocols.
- Laboratory Research & Experimental Techniques:
- Perform advanced molecular and cellular techniques, including:
- ELISA, calibrated automated thrombogram, RNA sequencing.
- Live-cell immunofluorescence and intravital microscopy.
- Flow cytometry, Western blotting, and quantitative PCR.
- Support experimental design and execution, troubleshooting technical issues as needed.
- Animal Research & In Vivo Models:
- Conduct IACUC-approved animal procedures for research projects, including:
- Rodent handling, oral gavage, and intraperitoneal injections.
- Blood collection, cardiac puncture, organ harvesting, and euthanasia.
- Collaborate with animal facility personnel to maintain compliance and organization.
- Maintain and oversee the mouse colony, assist with breeding, and perform routine animal care.
- Actively contribute to the design and execution of mouse models for:
- Venous thrombosis (including recovery surgery).
- Endothelial function and atherosclerosis.
- Sepsis and lung injury models.
- Evaluate experimental outcomes and recommend improvements in research models and methodologies.
Required Qualifications*
- High school diploma or associates degree and 1 year of experience.
Desired Qualifications*
- Bachelors degree in a scientific field with at least 3 years of laboratory experience.
- Expertise in neutrophil and platelet biology, lipid peroxidation, and HDL function.
- Extensive experience with flow cytometry-based assays.
- Experience working with lung injury and atherosclerosis mouse models.
- Experience working with neutrophils and platelets in a research setting.
- Strong background in animal models and handling of laboratory mice.
- Ability to work collaboratively with physicians, students, and research scientists.
- Professional demeanor, strong interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
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.
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 Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.