FT Laboratory Technician, Limited Term

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Orange (CA); On-site; USD 25,003 - 35,610; Full time

Job summary

Chapman University, a leading private university in California, invites applications for a full-time Laboratory Technician in an NIH-funded research lab within the Chapman University School of Pharmacy. The technician will work under the PI to perform cell culture, biochemical assays, proteomics, and general lab maintenance while training students and assisting with orders and documentation.

The role emphasizes careful data management, safety, and collaboration with graduate students and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of research methods in cell biology and laboratory practices.
• Ability to operate and maintain laboratory equipment and ensure safety.

Responsibilities

• Perform experiments using established protocols under PI guidance.
• Culture cells (BSL2) and prepare growth media.
• Carry out biochemical/molecular assays (ELISA, RT-PCR, SDS-PAGE, immunoblotting) and microscopy.
• Assist with LC‑MS/MS proteomics and data collection.
• Maintain lab records and organize orders for materials and supplies.
• Ensure laboratory safety and compliance with policies.

Skills

Cell biology knowledge

Laboratory equipment operation

Documentation & data recording

Independent and team work

Writing & computational skills

Collaboration with PI and faculty

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field

Equivalent combination of education and lab experience

Job description

Posting Details

Position Title

FT Laboratory Technician, Limited Term

Position Type

Limited-Term (Renewable)

Job Number

SA86124

Full or Part Time

full-time 40 hours weekly

Fair Labor Standard Act Classification

Non-Exempt

Anticipated Pay Range

$22/hr

Position Summary

Full-time laboratory technician in an NIH-funded research lab at the Chapman University School of Pharmacy. The position conducts research under the direct supervision of the principal investigator. Duties include cell culture, performing cell and biochemical assays including confocal and fluorescence microscopy, SDS‑PAGE and immunoblotting, proteomic methodologies, and general laboratory maintenance. Train and advise new graduate and undergraduate students. Assist PI in organizing and tracking orders for laboratory materials and supplies. Work with graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to support ongoing research projects.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory experiments using established protocols under the guidance of the PI.
• Perform primary and immortalized cell culture (BSL2) using sterile technique. Maintain the laboratory’s cell culture facility and prepare growth media.
• Perform basic biochemical and molecular assays such as EIA, ELISA, RT‑PCR, SDS‑PAGE, immunoblotting, microscopy, and related laboratory procedures as needed.
• Assist with cell and molecular analytical studies, including confocal and fluorescent microscopy, and proteomics using LC‑MS/MS.
• Assist with sample preparation, data collection, organization, and documentation.
• Assist with troubleshooting experimental procedures and optimizing laboratory workflows.
• Maintain laboratory organization and cleanliness.
• General lab maintenance, including ordering supplies, preparing buffer and media solutions, and general clean‑up.
• Operate, clean and calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Follow established laboratory safety procedures and university policies.
• Properly handle, store, and dispose of chemicals, biological materials, and laboratory waste.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of research and experimental methods in cell biology.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and maintain a safe working environment.
• Ability to conduct research in a timely manner and document all data.
• Strong writing skills and computational knowledge.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team.
• Ability to collaborate with the Principal Investigator and other faculty before and during research.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, or pharmaceutical science.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Special Instructions

The position is fully on campus, and employees work alongside colleagues, faculty, students, and staff each day to support our vibrant university community.

Background Screening

The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.

Attainment of Work Authorization

Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.