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 skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
A Research Laboratory Technician Intermediate position is available in the McLaughlin lab in the Department of Cell & Developmental Biology (CDB) at the University of Michigan. Our lab uses a combination of multi-omics (single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics), cell biology, and genetics in the Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) to investigate how neural circuits are built, refined, and maintained.
Our group values community, scientific rigor, and intellectual growth. We are seeking a laboratory technician who will manage the lab's Drosophila strains, ordering, and equipment and who can also assist with ongoing experiments. Working under the guidance of Dr. Colleen McLaughlin (Principal Investigator) the candidate will gain expertise in routine techniques including Drosophila strain management, genetics, immunostaining, and confocal microscopy.
This position is ideal for a graduating college senior looking for full time work and looking to gain laboratory experience and skills. The start date for this position is no earlier than November 1st, 2026.
Responsibilities*
Drosophila stock management (50%)
Conduct routine fly stock management responsibilities including:
Maintaining Drosophila stocks (preserving, organizing, and maintaining strains)
Database management (maintaining database of strains)
Cooking and pouring fly food/media
Research projects (20%)
Work in collaboration with the Principal Investigator to conduct experiments, collect data, and gain proficiency in the following techniques:
Tissue processing for immunofluorescence and proteomics experiments
Genetics and cell biology
Confocal microscopy
PCR
Laboratory management (30%)
Perform general lab operations and upkeep including:
Ordering and receiving supplies, reagents, and equipment
Tracking inventory
Maintaining and coordinating repairs of lab equipment
Preparing common reagents, buffers, and solutions
Managing waste disposal and general lab organization
Assist with onboarding and training of new lab members in routine procedures and safety protocols
Required Qualifications*
Bachelor's degree in relevant field (cell biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, etc.)
Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
Must be comfortable handling and working with Drosophila
Research Lab Tech Associate: Bachelor's degree in cell biology, biochemistry, neuroscience or a related field is preferred and 0-1 years experience is required.
Research Lab Tech Intermediate: Bachelor's degree in a cell biology, biochemistry, neuroscience or a related field and
1-3 years experience required.
Desired Qualifications*
Previous experience working in molecular biology labs
Previous experience working in Drosophila labs
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
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 underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
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 any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.