Laboratory Scientist/UKHC

UK HealthCare; Lexington (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Kentucky is seeking a Laboratory Scientist for the Clinical Micro Lab in Lexington, KY. The role focuses on specimen processing, rapid testing, gram staining, and reporting results within a Level I trauma center environment.

The position requires a BS in a related field, with preferred candidates holding a broader degree in Medical Lab Science, Microbiology, or Biology and previous clinical microbiology experience. Shift is full-time, Mon-Fri with weekends rotation.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Medical Lab Science, Microbiology or Biology.
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Medical Lab Science / Microbiology or Biology with clinical microbiology experience.
• No experience required.

Responsibilities

• Process specimens and triage orders.
• Perform rapid and stat testing and gram staining.
• Report positive blood cultures and relevant results.
• Perform multiplex and routine molecular assays.
• Conduct media QC and stock supplies.
• Report digital culture images.

Skills

Written and verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Keyboarding skills

Education

BS

Bachelor’s degree in Medical Lab Science / Microbiology / Biology (preferred)

Job description

Job Title

Laboratory Scientist/UKHC

Requisition Number

RE55888

Working Title

Laboratory Scientist - Clinical Micro Lab

Department Name

H3200:Laboratory Services

Work Location

Lexington, KY

Grade Level

10

Salary Range

$23.25-39.10/hour

Type of Position

Staff

Position Time Status

Full-Time

Required Education

BS

Click here for more information about equivalencies:

https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience

No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Regular use of computer workstation and repetitive motion. Occasional standing or walking with objects up to 10 pounds. Occasional exposure to cuts/punctures and burns and to blood borne/airborne pathogens.

Shift

40 hours/week Monday through Friday with rotating weekends.

Job Summary

The Laboratory Scientist will be primarily responsible for specimen processing, specimen triage, order processing, rapid and stat testing, gram staining and reporting positive blood cultures, performing multiplex and routine molecular assay, media QC and monitor/stock supplies, and reporting digital culture images. The Laboratory provides services to all aspects of this Level I trauma center and throughout the healthcare enterprise, including solid organ and bone marrow transplant, KY Children’s Hospital, and Markey Cancer Center. The CAP -Accredited Laboratory at the University of Kentucky showcases the use of state-of-the-art instrumentation and technology.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

This position requires excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, problem solving skills and good keyboarding skills. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to multi-task and work as part of a team.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

No

Preferred Education/Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Medical Lab Science, Microbiology or Biology with previous experience in a clinical microbiology laboratory preferred.

Deadline to Apply

10/05/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.