Laboratory Scientist/UKHC

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); Hybrid; USD 32,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The Laboratory Scientist will process specimens, perform rapid and stat testing, gram staining, and report culture results for the Clinical Micro Lab at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY.

This role requires a BS in Medical Lab Science, Microbiology or Biology, strong multitasking and teamwork, and a commitment to quality in a Level I trauma center environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Lab Science, Microbiology or Biology with clinical microbiology lab experience preferred.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Multitasking

Teamwork

Education

BS in Medical Lab Science, Microbiology or Biology

Job description

Working Title Laboratory Scientist - Clinical Micro Lab

Department Name

Department Name H3200:Laboratory Services

Work Location

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 10

Salary Range

Salary Range $23.25-39.10/hour

Type of Position

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education

BS

Click here for more information about equivalencies:

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?

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

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.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Please choose the answer that best describes your amount of paid employment experience in a clinical microbiology laboratory.
  • None
  • More than 0, up through 1 year
  • More than 1 year, up through 2 years
  • More than 2 years, up through 3 years
  • More than 3 years
• * Have you completed at least one college microbiology course?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Describe an example of your ability to multi-task within a fast-paced work environment.

  (Open Ended Question)