Research Lab Specialist Senior

The University of Michigan; Ann Arbor (MI); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cai Laboratory at the University of Michigan Medical School seeks a Research Laboratory Specialist Senior to lead development of transgenic tools and spatial-omics technologies for mapping mouse neural circuits. The lab builds multicolor labeling with Bitbow to resolve neuronal identity, morphology, and connectivity at scale.

The Specialist will design, validate Bitbow transgenic lines and multiplexed spatial assays co-profiling mRNA and protein in the same tissue.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, molecular biology, biology, or a related field.
• 5–6 years of related research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning and transgenic mouse lines.
• Hands-on experience with multiplexed tissue labeling methods and fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience designing and executing complex experiments and analyzing large datasets.
• Supervisory experience, including training and mentoring junior lab members.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate novel Bitbow transgenic tools for multicolor labeling and lineage tracing in the mouse nervous system.
• Develop and optimize spatial-omics assays that co-detect mRNA transcripts and protein antigens in the same sample.
• Plan and conduct large, complex experiments, troubleshoot methods, and improve assay quality and throughput.
• Coordinate data collection, quality control, and analysis of large imaging and spatial datasets.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment, reagents, and mouse colony management.
• Train and supervise graduate students, undergraduates, and research staff; assist PI with managing resources and budgets.
• Co-author manuscripts, present findings at lab meetings and conferences, and contribute to grant progress reports.

Skills

Written & verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in neuroscience or related field

PhD preferred

Tools

Python

MATLAB

ImageJ/Fiji

Fluorescence microscopy

Job description

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

The Cai Laboratory in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Michigan Medical School seeks a Research Laboratory Specialist Senior to lead the development of transgenic tools and spatial-omics technologies for mapping mouse neural circuits. The lab builds multicolor labeling and imaging approaches, including Bitbow, to resolve neuronal identity, morphology, and connectivity at scale. This position will drive the design and validation of new Bitbow transgenic lines and multiplexed spatial assays that co-profile mRNA and protein antigens within the same tissue sample. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, the Specialist will independently conduct complex research projects, oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, train and supervise junior lab personnel, and contribute to publications, presentations, and grant applications.

Responsibilities*

The Research Laboratory Specialist Senior will design, develop, and validate novel Bitbow transgenic tools for multicolor labeling and lineage and circuit tracing in the mouse nervous system. They will also develop and optimize spatial-omics assays that co-detect mRNA transcripts and protein antigens in the same sample, combining multiplexed in situ hybridization, immunolabeling, and high-resolution imaging. The Specialist will plan and conduct large, complex experiments, evaluate results, troubleshoot methods, and make improvements to assay quality and throughput. They will coordinate data collection, quality control, and analysis of large imaging and spatial datasets, and use the results to refine experimental approaches. The Specialist will oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment, protocols, reagent and supply management, mouse colony coordination, and safety and compliance. They will train and supervise graduate students, undergraduates, and research staff in laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and data analysis, and assist the Principal Investigator with managing project resources, monitoring budgets, and purchasing. As a liaison with collaborators, core facilities, and other departments and institutions, the Specialist will help advance the lab's shared projects. They will also co-author manuscripts, present findings at lab meetings and scientific conferences, and contribute to grant applications and progress reports.

Required Qualifications*

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills contributing to a strong team environment are required.

Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, molecular biology, biology, or a related field, plus 5-6 years of related research experience (an equivalent combination of advanced degree and experience will be considered)

Demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning and generation or characterization of transgenic mouse lines

Hands-on experience with multiplexed tissue labeling methods (e.g., in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry) and fluorescence microscopy

Experience independently designing and executing complex experiments and analyzing large datasets

Supervisory experience, including training and mentoring junior lab members

Desired Qualifications*

PhD in neuroscience, molecular/cell biology, or a related field, with postdoctoral research experience

Experience developing spatial transcriptomics or spatial proteomics assays, especially approaches that co-profile mRNA and protein in the same sample

Familiarity with Brainbow/Bitbow or other multicolor labeling and barcoding strategies

Experience with advanced imaging methods (e.g., confocal, light-sheet, or expansion microscopy) and computational image analysis (Python, MATLAB, ImageJ/Fiji)

Strong record of scientific productivity, as shown by publications or presentations

Experience contributing to grant applications and collaborative, multi-institutional projects

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.The review and selection process maybegin as early as the eighth day after posting.Thisopening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.