Research Lab Specialist Inter

University of Michigan; Michigan; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Michigan, Michigan Center for Translational Pathology (MCTP), seeks a meticulous Lab Specialist Associate to develop a novel liquid biopsy platform for detecting cancer via circulating RNA. You will play a key role in transforming patient blood samples into high-quality genomic data in a high-precision environment.

The role emphasizes mastering complex molecular workflows, including RNA/DNA isolation, LNG library prep, and rigorous QC, with a focus on reproducibility and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant biological science.
• 1–3 years hands-on molecular biology lab experience.
• Ability to master complex, multi-step protocols with high reproducibility.

Responsibilities

• Sample Processing: End-to-end processing of clinical blood samples from healthy donors and cancer patients.
• Molecular Protocols: Nucleic acid isolation (RNA/DNA), enzymatic DNA digestion, and hybridization capture.
• NGS Library Preparation: Lead high-throughput sequencing library construction and QC assessments.
• Data Integrity: Maintain records to ensure reproducibility and clinical relevance.
• Lab Stewardship: Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient molecular lab environment.

Skills

Molecular biology

Attention to detail

Laboratory skills

NGS library prep

Data integrity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry or related

Master's degree in Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry or related

Tools

Bioanalyzer

TapeStation

Qubit

Job description

Job SummaryThe Michigan Center for Translational Pathology (MCTP) is a premier research laboratory within the University of Michigan Medical School at the forefront of precision oncology. We are seeking a meticulous Lab Specialist Associate to join our team in developing a novel liquid biopsy platform for the detection and monitoring of cancer through circulating RNA.In this role, you will be vital to our pipeline that transforms patient blood samples into high-quality genomic data. This position requires an individual who thrives in a high-precision environment and is committed to mastery of the required laboratory protocols.

Responsibilities*

• Sample Processing: Execute end-to-end processing of clinical blood samples from healthy donors and cancer patients.
• Molecular Protocols: Perform complex workflows including nucleic acid isolation (RNA/DNA) from plasma, enzymatic DNA digestion, and hybridization capture.
• NGS Library Preparation: Lead high-throughput sequencing library construction and rigorous Quality Control (QC) assessments.
• Data Integrity: Maintain impeccable records of protocols, sample tracking, and experimental outcomes to ensure reproducibility and clinical relevance.
• Lab Stewardship: Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient molecular laboratory environment.

Required Qualifications*

• Associate level requirements:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science
  • Experience: Minimum of 1-3 years of hands‑on experience in a molecular biology laboratory (post‑undergraduate experience preferred)
  • Technical Precision: Proven ability to master complex, multi-step protocols with high reproducibility and attention to detail.
• Intermediate level requirements:
  • Education: Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science
  • Experience: Minimum of 4-5 years of hands‑on experience in a molecular biology laboratory

Desired Qualifications*

• Genomics Expertise: Direct experience with Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows, specifically library prep and hybridization capture.
• Analytical Skills: Familiarity with QC tools (e.g., Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Qubit).
• Mindset: A proactive problem‑solver who excels in a fast‑paced, mission‑driven research setting.