Job Summary
The Misek laboratory at Chad Carr ? Pediatric Brain Tumor Center in the Department of Pediatrics is looking for an exceptional candidate for a Research Lab Specialist Intermediate position. The role offers the opportunity to join a new and growing laboratory focused on understanding the genetic dependencies of pediatric brain tumors and translating these findings into new therapeutic strategies. The lab uses functional genomics approaches, including CRISPR-based genetic screens and next-generation sequencing (NGS), to define novel vulnerabilities in pediatric brain tumors and other cancers.
Responsibilities*
Basic functions and responsibilities:
Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator to drive scientific research in the fields of cancer genomics and pediatric neuro-oncology. Participate in contributing to and/or leading research programs within the laboratory. Additionally, participate in supervising junior research staff.
The successful candidate will maintain a core role in leading scientific projects as well as helping to build and manage the day-to-day operations of a new laboratory. The position is approximately 75% hands-on experimental research and 25% laboratory management (which includes training new lab personnel). The candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator to establish laboratory workflows, standard operating procedures, and experimental pipelines, and will be recognized for their scientific contributions through co-authorship on resulting publications.
Duties and responsibilities:
Independently perform experiments to support new and ongoing research efforts in the laboratory (75%), including:
Establish NGS sample preparation workflows
Conduct experiments using molecular biology and cell biology approaches
Assist in writing/preparing manuscripts and grants
Maintain and establish new genetically engineered cancer models
Design, execute, and troubleshoot pooled CRISPR screens, including sgRNA library amplification, lentivirus production, transduction, genomic DNA extraction, and NGS library preparation
Perform molecular cloning, PCR/qPCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, and cell-based drug sensitivity assays
Perform lab management duties including but not limited to ordering supplies, record keeping, managing bio/chemical safety protocols, scheduling undergraduate students (15%)
Keep shared instruments in working order and arrange preventive maintenance and repairs
Maintain inventories of reagents, cell lines, plasmids, and biological samples (including freezer databases)
Write up and keep current the lab?s written protocols and safety documentation
Track EHS/IBC training and compliance requirements and help orient incoming lab members
Assist other team members in their projects (10%)
Participate in laboratory meetings
Responsible for accurate recordkeeping
Train laboratory members in cell/molecular biology lab techniques
Contribute to experimental design and troubleshooting, and propose improvements to protocols and workflows
Additional responsibilities as the needs of the laboratory evolve
Supervision received:
The position reports to the Principal Investigator, who sets overall scientific direction and meets with the candidate on a regular schedule to review progress and priorities. Day-to-day work is largely self-directed; the candidate is expected to plan and carry out experiments with minimal oversight, troubleshoot problems as they arise, and decide when an issue should be escalated.
Supervision exercised:
The candidate will help train and coordinate the work of undergraduate researchers, rotation students, and newer members of the lab, and will oversee their adherence to laboratory protocols and safety practices.
Required Qualifications*
Bachelor?s degree in the biological sciences (e.g., molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology) or an equivalent combination of education and experience
4-5 years? experience in a related field.
A minimum of three years of hands-on wet-lab research experience beyond the undergraduate degree; time spent in a graduate program may be counted
Hands-on experience with mammalian tissue culture and working in a BSL-2 environment
Practical experience with core molecular techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, cloning, and immunoblotting
Experience with, or a strong interest in learning, next-generation sequencing library preparation
Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and meticulous record keeping
Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present data and explain protocols to colleagues at all levels
Comfortable using standard office and data software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, GraphPad Prism or similar) for record keeping and data presentation
Self-motivated, dependable, and eager to acquire new technical skills
Desired Qualifications*
Advanced degree (MS or similar) in a relevant biological discipline
Previous responsibility for laboratory operations, such as purchasing, inventory, equipment upkeep, or mentoring students
Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, pooled genetic screens, and lentiviral production
Experience with Illumina NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows (e.g., DNA-seq, RNA-seq, sgRNA amplicon sequencing)
Experience with cancer biology, functional genomics, or neuro-oncology research
Experience with flow cytometry and cell-based compound screening assays
Rodent handling experience, particularly with intracranial tumor xenograft models
Some exposure to scripting or sequencing data analysis (R, Python, or Unix command line)
Applicants should submit a CV and a brief cover letter describing previous research experience, interest in the position, and relevant technical experience. Contact information for references will be requested from finalists.
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
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.
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.