Research/Lab Technician - Dr. Dunpeng Cai Lab

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 20,664 - 24,796; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

University benefits

Paid time off

Educational fee discounts

Job summary

The University of Missouri, Department of Surgery-Research, is seeking a Research Technician to support diverse cardiovascular research projects in the Cai Laboratory. You will conduct experiments, collect data, and assist with animal handling and imaging using molecular biology and histology methods.

The role emphasizes meticulous record-keeping, data analysis, and collaboration within a multi-disciplinary team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be reliable, organized, and detail-oriented.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and work independently or with a team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments according to established protocols and maintain records.
• Collect, organize, analyze, and manage experimental data.
• Maintain mouse colonies, breed, and perform PCR-based genotyping.
• Assist with animal experiments, tissue collection, and ultrasound imaging.
• Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques (DNA/RNA/protein extraction; PCR/qPCR; Western blot; immunostaining).
• Maintain vascular cell cultures and tissue processing for histology and IHC.
• Prepare reagents and laboratory supplies; assist with reports and presentations.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Reliable

Organized

Willing to learn

Education

High School diploma

Tools

PCR-based genotyping

DNA/RNA/Protein extraction

Western blotting

Immunostaining

Job description

Hiring Department

Department of Surgery-Research.

Job Description

The Department of Surgery at the University of Missouri School ofMedicine is seeking a motivated, dependable, and detail-oriented Research Technician to join the laboratory of Dunpeng Cai, PhD.

The Cai Laboratory conducts translational cardiovascular research focused on understanding and treating vascular and heart valve diseases. Major research areas include Marfan syndrome and other inherited aortic diseases, thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms and dissection, atherosclerosis, vascular remodeling, and calcified aortic valve disease. Current projects integrate molecular and cellular biology, advanced imaging, genetically engineered animal models and human vascular cells and tissues.

The Research Technician will play an integral role in supporting daily laboratory operations and advancing multiple ongoing research projects. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting experiments according to established protocols and maintaining accurate laboratory records
• Collecting, organizing, analyzing, and managing experimental data
• Maintaining mouse colonies, coordinating breeding, and performing PCR-based genotyping
• Assisting with animal experiments, tissue collection, physiological assessments, and ultrasound imaging
• Performing molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA, RNA, and protein extraction; PCR and qPCR; Western blotting; immunostaining; and related assays
• Maintaining primary vascular cell cultures and established cell lines
• Processing vascular and cardiac tissues and performing histological and immunohistochemical analyses
• Preparing reagents, media, buffers, and other laboratory supplies
• Assisting with the preparation of research reports, figures, presentations, and manuscripts
• Maintaining laboratory inventories, equipment, and a clean and safe research environment
• Ensuring proper handling and disposal of biological and chemical waste and compliance with institutional laboratory and animal-research requirements

The ideal candidate will be reliable, organized, attentive to detail, and willing to learn new techniques. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively is essential. This position provides extensive hands-on experience in molecular biology, cell culture, cardiovascular animal models, imaging, histology, and translational research. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in biomedical science, cardiovascular research, precision medicine, or future graduate or professional training.

Shift

Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Minimum Qualifications

A high school diploma or an equivalent combination of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $15.00 - $18.00 hourly
Grade: GGS - 004
University Title: RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Sponsorship Information

Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.