Job Summary
The McLoughlin Laboratory at the University of Michigan seeks an experienced Research Laboratory Specialist Intermediate, with an emphasis on expertise in executing mouse model experiments. You will join our collaborative team working to uncover mechanisms and therapeutic targets for hereditary neurodegenerative diseases, with an immediate and primary focus on translation in vivo studies in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3).
While our lab utilizes various model systems, this position will concentrate on advanced mouse model work?including transgenic strain maintenance, surgical procedures, behavioral assessments, and in vivo sample collection to support a high-priority, contract-funded and NIH-funded research projects. The successful candidate will drive mouse-based experiments, help with lab management and organization, and contribute to ongoing team training and supervision.
Responsibilities*
- Plan, execute, and analyze experiments from conception through data interpretation, maintaining rigorous records of sample identification and experimental outcomes.
- Independently perform animal surgeries (especially stereotaxic intracerebroventricular [ICV] injections) in transgenic mouse models.
- Conduct behavioral assays (open field, etc.), in-life assessments, biofluid/tissue processing, and post-mortem sample collection and brain dissections.
- Organize and analyze biochemical experiments on animal models, including neurobehavioral test data.
- Assist with animal colony maintenance, general lab maintenance, ordering, and shipping.
- Maintain compliance with IACUC protocols and best practices in animal welfare.
- Help assemble manuscripts, chapters, and research abstracts.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or a related field.
- Minimum 4 years of experience in a related field.
- Demonstrated experience with rodent handling and survival surgeries, including stereotaxic procedures.
- Experience with maintenance and breeding of mouse colonies.
- Proficiency in designing, executing, and analyzing biochemical/molecular experiments on animal tissues.
- Lab management experience, including record-keeping and organization.
- Exceptional organizational skills, reliability, and self-motivation.
Desired Qualifications*
- Master's degree in Neuroscience or a related field.
- Prior experience with mouse models and running blinded, animal behavioral studies.
- Proficiency with Illustrator, Excel, and basic Microsoft Office applications.
- Solid understanding of statistics and data analysis.
- Skills in molecular techniques (RNA/protein extraction, immunoassays).
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.
Additional Information
- Candidates will be expected to actively take part in collaborations.
- Applicants should be reliable and able to work well within a group.
- Preference will be given to applicants who seek more than 1-2 years of commitment to this position.
- Immediate start ideal.
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.