Research Laboratory Specialist

How to Apply

To apply for this job, please upload (combined into ONE PDF): 

• CV/resume 
• Cover letter (address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience directly related to this role) 
• Names and contact information for three professional references

Submit your application via the University of Michigan applicant system.  All inquiries about the position can be sent to Dr. Giles ([email protected]).

Job Summary

The Exercise Oncology Lab, led by Dr. Erin Giles at the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, is recruiting a full-time Research Laboratory Specialist to join our NIH/NCI-funded team. Our mission is to understand why obesity increases breast cancer risk and to develop innovative lifestyle and pharmacological interventions that ultimately improve patient outcomes. By joining us, you will play an essential role in experiments with both cell culture and animal models, including animal handling, rodent surgeries, and tissue collection, directly contributing to research that advances cancer prevention and care.

Success in this role means being comfortable overseeing animal studies, skilled in molecular biology and immunohistochemical techniques, and passionate about teamwork and scientific discovery. We champion a collaborative, interdisciplinary lab culture that values mentorship, scientific rigor, and professional growth for every team member.

You'll benefit from access to leading-edge core facilities, collaboration with experts across cancer, metabolism, and nutrition, and many opportunities for skill development and career advancement. Ann Arbor offers an outstanding quality of life, vibrant cultural amenities, and a welcoming academic community.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Maternity and parental leave
• University commitment to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities

Responsibilities*

Essential Functions are noted with an "EF"

• Perform animal experiments (rodent handling, surgeries, monitoring, drug administration, tissue collection, blood draws, and additional procedures per established protocols) (EF)
• Conduct molecular biology experiments (immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence, RNA/DNA/protein analysis (western blotting, qPCR, etc) (EF)
• Carry out cell culture studies using aseptic technique (EF)
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks and participate in developing/optimizing experimental protocols (EF)
• Support general lab operations: equipment maintenance, supply ordering, recordkeeping (EF)
• Train new lab users, contribute to group meetings, and cultivate a collaborative, inclusive lab culture (EF)
• Contribute to data analysis, figure preparation, and presentation of results for grants, manuscripts, and lab meetings 

Required Qualifications*

Intermediate Level: 

• Master's degree is required, along with a Bachelor's degree in a recognized field of science or learning which is directly related to the duties of this position
• 4 to 5 years of relevant experience (see below)

Associate Level:

• Bachelor's degree in a recognized field of science or learning which is directly related to the duties of this position 
• 3 years of related experience (see below)

In addition to the degree and years of experience requirements:

• Hands-on experience conducting rodent experiments (animal handling, surgeries, tissue collection)
• Demonstrated proficiency in cell and molecular biology techniques (western blotting, ELISA, colorimetric assays, qPCR, RNA/DNA/protein analysis, immunohistochemistry OR immunofluorescence)
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team setting
• Excellent organization, punctuality, and communication skills (written and oral)
• A verifiable ability to function effectively in a continually changing environment, and to troubleshoot problems and implement corrective actions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic scientific software
• Proven success with contributing to a positive workplace culture, and ability to consistently demonstrate our school's core values.

Desired Qualifications*

• 3 - 5+ years of experience in molecular techniques and rodent models
• Experience with flow cytometry, data analysis, or statistical analysis (e.g. R, GraphPad Prism, SPSS)
• Knowledge of lab management, regulatory compliance, and safety protocols
• Experience with microscopy, sample preparation, and/or RNA sequencing
• Familiarity with laboratory data analysis and bioinformatics tools

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.

Additional Information

This is a term-limited appointment, funded for 1 year; the initial appointment may be extended depending on the availability of research funds and successful performance. The salary range for this position is $42,000 - $51,000 (associate level) or $52,000 - $66,000 (intermediate level), commensurate with education and experience, with eligibility for the school's 2026 merit program. Offers may be extended outside the posted salary range  based on equity, experience, knowledge, and skills for this role. Applicants are encouraged to ask questions about salary and benefits openly in the recruiting process. 

This is a full-time onsite position located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Laboratory work and team collaboration require presence on campus.

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 will be 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 anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.