Lab Research Assistant - Immunology & Cell Biology

University of Michigan; Ann Arbor (MI); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent medical, dental and vision

2:1 retirement match

Job summary

The University of Michigan’s Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine is seeking a Research Assistant or Laboratory Specialist for a VA Medical Center-based lab. The role focuses on cell and molecular biology techniques within immunology and related fields.

You will conduct experiments, manage animal tissue work, perform flow cytometry, RT-PCR, ELISA and other assays, and maintain meticulous records while ordering and maintaining lab materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in health or biological science; pre-PhD or pre-med applicants encouraged.
• 0-1 year experience; general understanding of molecular biology, protein chemistry, immunology, and cell biology.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques and instrumentation: solutions, analytical balances, pH meters, PCR, gel electrophoresis, spectrophotometers, coulter counters, scintillation counters, centrifuges.
• Experience handling mice and cell culture (animal) preferred.
• Ability to work independently and with supervision.

Responsibilities

• Initiate and perform experimental efforts in immunology/cell biology.
• Infect animals (mice) with microbes and dissect organs/tissues.
• Isolate cell populations from mice and stain cells for flow cytometry; acquire data with FACS.
• Analyze leukocyte subsets using gating strategies and FloJo program.
• Isolate RNA for RT-PCR and perform routine bioassays (ELISA, RT-PCR, CFU).
• Maintain records in notebooks and computer; manage ordering of lab supplies.
• Ensure equipment is functioning; arrange repairs if needed.
• Prepare media, buffers, and solutions; supervise purchasing of supplies.

Skills

Molecular biology

Protein chemistry

Immunology

Cell biology

Education

Bachelor's degree in health or biological science

Tools

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Flow cytometry

Spectrophotometry

Centrifuges

Job description

The University of Michigan’s Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine is seeking a Research Assistant or Laboratory Specialist for a VA Medical Center-based lab. The role focuses on cell and molecular biology techniques within immunology and related fields.

You will conduct experiments, manage animal tissue work, perform flow cytometry, RT-PCR, ELISA and other assays, and maintain meticulous records while ordering and maintaining lab materials.