Lab Assistant

Utah; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City is seeking a diligent laboratory professional to perform molecular and cell biology techniques, including cancer biology and therapeutics, using mammalian cell culture and mouse models. You will work under the supervision of the principal investigator to support research aims and ensure accurate data collection.

The role emphasizes protocol implementation, data analysis, and potential training of junior staff, with attention to detailed records and

Qualifications

• One year full‑time laboratory experience or equivalency required.
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques, equipment and terminology required.
• Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills are required.
• OSHA training and certification in animal care may be required by some departments.

Responsibilities

• Performs specialized experiments using mammalian cells and mouse models related to cell and molecular biology, cancer biology and therapeutics.
• Assists the Principal Investigators in implementation and performance of protocols and procedures, and modification of techniques.
• Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results.
• Operates specialized laboratory instruments and equipment; instructs others in their use.
• Maintains accurate and detailed experimental records.
• May train other laboratory personnel.

Skills

Communication skills

Team orientation

Organizational skills

Detail-oriented

Flexible

Statistical software

Education

Bachelor or Master’s degree in Biology/ Biochemistry / Cell biology

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

Job Summary

Performs research laboratory techniques in molecular and cell biology, drug efficacy testing, cancer biology, epigenomics using mammalian cell culture and mouse model systems under the supervision of the principal investigator.

Huntsman Cancer Institute is committed to cancer prevention, care, and survivorship for all communities within the area we serve – which includes Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming – with impact worldwide.

In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional experiences have prepared you to serve as a member of our team as we work to reduce the cancer burden experienced by all people and communities. This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical care, community engagement/outreach, training, administration, or other areas relevant to Huntsman Cancer Institute’s mission and this position.

Responsibilities

• Performs specialized experiments using mammalian cells and mouse models related to cell and molecular biology, cancer biology and therapeutics. (45%)
• Assists the Principal Investigators in implementation and performance of protocols and procedures as well as the modification of existing techniques. (35%)
• Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results. (15%)
• Operates specialized laboratory instruments and equipment; instructs others in their use. (5%)
• Maintains accurate and detailed experimental records. (5%)
• May train other laboratory personnel. (5%)

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Minimum Qualifications

One year full‑time laboratory experience or equivalency required (one year full‑time lab equivalency equals successful completion of two semesters of college laboratory coursework). Knowledge of laboratory techniques, equipment and terminology as well as knowledge of chemical and physical properties of materials or substances and appropriate specimen handling techniques required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills are also required. OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.

Preferences

• Bachelor or Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell biology or other equivalent scientific disciplines.
• Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology and mammalian tissue culture is preferred.
• Demonstrated team orientation, strong organizational skills and effective communication skills.
• Highly motivated toward discovery and application of findings to human health.
• Working knowledge of basic statistical calculations and software.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
• This position does not involve processing and testing clinical samples for diseases.
• Previous experience in laboratory research is preferred.
• Experience in molecular biology, cell biology and biochemistry techniques are preferred.
• Our laboratory is grounded on the principle of hard work and innovative discoveries. The successful candidate will share these values.
• A highly motivated, intrinsically curious, detail‑oriented, reliable and flexible individual is preferred.
• Those who intend to go to graduate or medical school after a 2‑year period and require laboratory experience and publication record are strongly encouraged to apply.

EEO Statement

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possesses a strong commitment to improving access to higher education. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy‑related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment.