Research Technologist II

MSU Careers Recent Jobs; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University’s Shames Laboratory seeks a Research Technologist II to support NIH-funded studies on innate immunity and host-pathogen interactions. You will lead an independent project within funded aims, manage mouse colonies, and ensure compliance with biosafety and animal care requirements.

The role requires an ability to work independently, train junior staff, and contribute to daily lab operations. A BSL-2 setting and willingness to complete biosafety training are required.

Qualifications

• Four-year degree in microbiology, biology, or related field with 6 months to 1 year of related lab experience.
• Experience with molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, tissue culture, and mouse infection models.
• Willing to complete NIH biosafety and animal handling trainings.
• Strong independence and ability to mentor junior personnel.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute an independent research project within funded aims.
• Manage transgenic and knockout mouse colonies and related records.
• Maintain compliance with NIH Data Management and Sharing Plans and animal use protocols.
• Contribute to day-to-day laboratory operations and safety compliance.
• Mentor and train junior laboratory personnel.

Skills

Aseptic technique

Bacterial culture

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular biology techniques

Flow cytometry

Microscopy / high-content imaging

Python coding

Mouse handling

Mentoring junior personnel

Education

B.S. or M.S. in microbiology or related field

Job description

Position Summary

The Shames Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology at Michigan State University is seeking a motivated and experienced Research Technologist II to support NIH-funded research focused on innate immunity and host-pathogen interactions.

The successful candidate will develop and execute an independent research project within the framework of the laboratory's funded aims, contribute to day-to-day laboratory operations, manage transgenic and knockout mouse colonies, and maintain compliance with NIH Data Management and Sharing Plans, animal use protocols, and institutional biosafety requirements. This position requires a high degree of independence and includes responsibility for the mentorship and training of junior laboratory personnel.

This position requires work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment. The candidate must be willing to complete all required institutional biosafety and animal handlingtraining. Some flexibility in scheduling may be required to support time-sensitive experiments.

Minimum Requirements

knowledge normally acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in microbiology, biology or other related field; six months to one year of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in microbiology, biology or other related field, such as molecular cloning, microbiological assays, tissue culture, and mouse infection models; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

The ideal candidate holds a B.S. or M.S. in microbiology or a closely related field, and brings the following qualifications with at least 1.5 years of research experience:

• Demonstrated proficiency in aseptic technique, bacterial culture, and mammalian cell culture
• Experience handling and working with mice in a research setting
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., molecular cloning, Western blotting, etc.)
• Highly organized, strong attention to detail, and ability to keep meticulous records
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively and to mentor junior personnel

Experience with flow cytometry, microscopy/high-content imaging, and/or Python coding is a plus.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Interested candidates should submit the following materials: a current CV or resume, contact information for three professional references, and a cover letter describing prior research experience, technical skills, and motivation for applying for this position. Applications missing a cover letter will not be considered.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://mgi.natsci.msu.edu/

Summary of Health Risks

Some duties in this position may include the following health risks:

• Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue and other body fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions.
• Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue.

The Bidding Eligibility ends on 08/11/2026 at 11:55 PM

Advertised: Aug 5, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Aug 11, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time