Job Summary
The Michigan Otolaryngology & Translational Oncology Labs seek a dynamic and experienced Research Laboratory Intermediate Technician to support clinical and translational research efforts within our expanding program. The candidate will support translational research focused on molecular pathology, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and pharmacologic response in head and neck cancer. This position involves performing complex laboratory procedures with increasing independence, contributing to experimental design, and assisting with data analysis and interpretation in a multidisciplinary research environment. This position is ideal for a candidate with a strong foundation in biobanking, biospecimen processing, pharmacological evaluation of cancer models, and regulatory compliance, who thrives in a multidisciplinary environment at the interface of research and patient care. The candidate will work closely with clinicians, patients, and the Michigan Otolaryngology and Translational Oncology (MiOTO) Lab team to support the success of translational research projects. This role requires strong interpersonal, leadership, and organizational skills, as well as experience in data management.
Responsibilities*
- Perform complex molecular biology experiments, including nucleic acid isolation, PCR/ddPCR, and next-generation sequencing library preparation
- Conduct laboratory workflows involving circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and other biospecimens, including plasma and tumor tissue
- Maintain and culture mammalian cell lines, including head and neck cancer models
- Perform pharmacologic treatment experiments and downstream analyses (e.g., cell viability assays, protein analysis, and pathway evaluation)
- Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data; assist in interpretation of results and troubleshooting of assays
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation in accordance with institutional and regulatory standards, including CLIA requirements
- Assist in the development and optimization of experimental protocols and laboratory procedures
- Support preparation of research reports, manuscripts, and presentations
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety and operational procedures
- Assist with training of students and other laboratory personnel as needed
- Supervision received is moderate, with increasing independence expected in execution of assigned responsibilities.
Required Qualifications*
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, or a related field
1-3 years of laboratory experience (including relevant undergraduate research experience)
Experience with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR)
Experience with mammalian cell culture techniques
Experience with western blotting or protein-based assays
Exposure to pharmacologic or drug-response studies
Experience working in a CLIA-certified laboratory or familiarity with CLIA-regulated workflows and documentation
Ability to follow detailed protocols and maintain accurate records
Strong organizational and communication skills
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience with liquid biopsy or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) workflows
- Familiarity with next-generation sequencing technologies
- Prior experience working with cancer models, particularly head and neck cancer
- Experience with data analysis tools or bioinformatics pipelines
- Experience supporting assay validation or quality control processes in regulated environments
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
This position is onsite and may require working with human-derived specimens and adherence to institutional biosafety and regulatory guidelines.
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 employment opportunity employer.