Lab Manager/Research Technician

Utah State University; Logan (UT); On-site; USD 44,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Utah State University is seeking a Lab Manager/Research Technician for the Gompert Lab in Fall 2025. This role involves conducting vital research in evolutionary genomics, assisting with lab operations, and providing support for students, making it ideal for those passionate about scientific discovery.

Qualifications

• B.S. or B.A. required; M.S. preferred.
• Research experience necessary.
• Strong understanding of the scientific method.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and supervise research activities in the lab.
• Perform molecular work and oversee insect husbandry.
• Train new lab members and assist students.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Understanding of scientific process

Education

B.S. or B.A. in biology or a related field

M.S. in biology (preferred)

Job description

Overview

The Gompert Lab at Utah State University (Department of Biology) is seeking a Lab Manager/Research Technician to join the team in Fall 2025. The successful candidate will assist in and oversee daily operations in the lab, with a primary focus on evolutionary genomics research. This work investigates how structural genetic variation—specifically chromosomal rearrangements—contributes to trait variation and adaptation in three insect systems: Lycaeides butterflies, Timema stick insects, and Callosobruchus seed beetles.

Responsibilities

The Lab Manager/Research Technician will play a key role in conducting and supervising research activities in the Gompert Lab, including molecular work and insect husbandry. Primary responsibilities include:

• General lab maintenance
• Molecular work, including DNA extraction and genomic library preparation for sequencing
• Overseeing the seed beetle colony
• Implementing lab experiments
• Training new lab members
• Assisting undergraduate and graduate students
• Attending weekly lab meetings

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

• B.S. or B.A. in biology or a related field
• Research experience
• Excellent attention to detail and organization skills
• A demonstrated ability to solve problems and think critically
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment
• Strong understanding of the scientific process, including experimental design and research integrity
• Genuine enthusiasm for scientific discovery and contributing to the advancement of knowledge

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. in biology or 2+ years of research experience in an academic or industry setting
• Research experience in molecular work, especially DNA extraction and genomic library preparation for next generation sequencing methods
• Experience or interest in working with insects in either laboratory or field settings

Required Documents

Along with the online application, please attach:

1. Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”

2. Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application

3. Contact information for a professional reference

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Advertised Salary

$22.00 per hour

ADA

This position involves working in a genomics research lab within an academic setting.

Physical demands include:

• High manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination
• Ability to work with and manipulate small objects
• Transporting light objects (<10 lbs)
• Standing at a lab bench for up to several hours at a time

Mental demands include:

• Handling and working with insects, particularly seed beetle colonies
• Critical thinking and attention to detail
• Strong understanding of science, experimental design, and basic arithmetic
• Ability to maintain focus and stay engaged in tasks for extended periods

College/Department Highlights

The USU Department of Biology is a friendly and positive atmosphere to work in. The faculty, staff and students are very supportive and respectful. Strongly consider joining this team to continue to support the wide expanse of students that undertake biology as part of their educational journey.

University Highlights

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls 28,900 students, both online and in person atlocations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU Online educates students from all 50 states and 55 countries. For over 25 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns in all of Utah’s counties.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by conference championships in multiple sports, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who willchampion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service.We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful.Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they namedUtah State the best employer in Utahin 2023.Learn moreabout USU.

The university provides aDual Career Assistance Programto support careers for partners who are also seeking employment.Additionally,USU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at [phone] [e-mail].

*updated 02/2025

Notice of Non-discrimination

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

Executive Director of the Office of EquityMatthew Pinner,[e-mail],Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266

Title IX CoordinatorCody Carmichael,[e-mail], Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266

Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visithttps://equity.usu.edu/, or contact:

U.S. Department of Education,Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights,800-421-3481,[e-mail]

*updated 09/2023