How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline experience that directly relates to this position. Please include a list of references along with your CV and cover letter.
Job Summary
The Cheng Lab in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Michigan is looking for a highly motivated and dedicated individual to fill an open position for a research lab specialist. Reporting directly to Dr. Cheng.
The Cheng lab has pioneered the biochemical synthesis of particulate antigens that resemble both the qualitative and quantitative features of enveloped viruses. We have used these particulates as model antigens to investigate how they activate B cells to turn on antibody production, and how the affinity and duration of antibodies together with memory B cell responses may be modulated by the individual as well as collective attributes of these antigens.
The outcome from this study is expected to lay foundations for the design of next-generation prophylactic or therapeutic vaccines. The Research Lab Specialist exercises professional judgment, scientific discretion, and accountability for data rigor, reproducibility, and project milestones, contributing directly to publications, progress reporting, and future funding efforts.
Responsibilities*
Design and conduct lab studies with relative independence:
- Independently plan, execute, and troubleshoot immunology/biochemistry experiments supporting sponsored-project objectives (e.g., preparation and characterization of particulate antigens; in vitro B-cell activation assays; sample processing; reagent prep; SOP adherence). Applies scientific judgment to select methodologies, optimize experimental conditions, maintain appropriate controls, and ensure rigor/reproducibility; coordinates experimental timelines and priorities in alignment with PI defined scientific goals and project milestones.
- To generate high-quality experimental data that directly advances the sponsored project's research aims and enables hypothesis testing and mechanistic interpretation.
- Produces reliable datasets that drive project milestones (figures, progress reports, manuscripts, grant renewals) and improves experimental efficiency through optimization and troubleshooting, reducing delays and resource waste.
Analyze research data and compose daily research reports using electronic notebook:
- Performs data quality control, organization, and analysis (e.g., flow cytometry gating/quantitation, assay normalization, plotting, summary statistics) and documents procedures/results in an electronic lab notebook with clear methods, parameters, deviations, and interpretation. Prepares concise daily/weekly updates highlighting outcomes, issues, and next-step recommendations for PI review.
- To ensure data integrity, traceability, and rapid decision-making by providing timely, well-documented results and interpretations that guide experimental direction.
- Strengthens reproducibility and compliance-ready documentation; accelerates iteration cycles by turning raw outputs into actionable conclusions; supports accurate reporting for internal reviews, publications, and funding deliverables.
Maintenance of critical instruments such as FPLC and flow cytometer:
- Performs routine calibration, performance checks, cleaning/sterilization, consumables replacement, and basic troubleshooting; maintains instrument logs; coordinates vendor service calls and preventive maintenance schedules; verifies post-service performance using standard reference samples/metrics.
- To keep essential core instruments operating within specification, experimental workflows remain uninterrupted, and data quality remains consistent.
- Minimizes instrument downtime and failed runs, protects high-value equipment, reduces repair costs through preventive care, and ensures dependable, high-quality data generation for the sponsored project.
Oversee day-to-day operation of the lab activities directly related to the sponsored project, including ordering/compliance and training research support personnel:
- Manages project-relevant procurement (supplies/reagents), tracks inventory, and coordinates with unit purchasing procedures; supports compliance needs relevant to sponsored work (e.g., documentation, safety practices, required records); trains and mentors research support personnel/students on SOPs, instrument use, data recording standards, and safe laboratory practices; monitors work quality and provides corrective guidance.
- To ensure the sponsored project is operationally supported, compliant, and staffed with properly trained personnel so research activities proceed safely and efficiently.
- Improves continuity and productivity of project work, reduces errors and rework through standardized training, supports audit-ready documentation practices, and enables smoother onboarding so the lab can meet sponsored-project timelines.
Required Qualifications*
- B.S. in biological sciences or related field.
- 2 or more years experience in molecular and cellular biology, general biochemistry, and immunology.
Desired Qualifications*
- Master or PhD degree in related fields.
- Experience with animals, various routes of immunization and animal dissection, including both rodent animals and nonhuman primates.
- Experience with single-cell omics analysis.
- Experience in molecular cloning and protein purification.
- Occasionally able to work with a flexible schedule.
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.
Underfill Statement
This position may be filled at a higher or lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
Additional Information
The Cheng Lab is located at the center of the Ann Arbor campus, with convenient access to public transportation and university parking structures.
This appointment comes with full package of benefits available from the university, highlights of which include the following:
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
- Comprehensive health and dental insurance with different levels of coverage and choices
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.