Research Technologist II

MSU - Michigan State University; East Lansing, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University’s Anaerobic Digestion Research and Education Center (ADREC) seeks a Research Technologist to conduct contract-based analyses and studies. You will work closely with ADREC’s manager on projects, perform daily lab tasks, analyze data, and assist in maintaining lab operations and equipment in East Lansing.

The role involves operating reactors, collecting samples, data entry, and training undergraduates in basic research techniques.

Qualifications

• Requires a four-year college degree in the specific field or related area with basic lab experience.
• Experience with tissue culture, analytical research, molecular biology, agriculture, physiology, or medical research is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license at the time of hire for potential university vehicle operation.

Responsibilities

• Performs tests and assays to generate data for research projects.
• Analyzes samples and records data and methods for reports.
• Uses and calibrates equipment (pH meters, GC, balance, autoclave, etc.) and maintains related software.
• Keeps inventory of lab consumables and informs manager for reorders.
• Maintains clean and organized lab spaces and handles hazardous waste pickup requests.
• Supervises and instructs undergraduate students in basic research techniques.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Equipment calibration

Supervision

Education

Four-year college degree

Related field experience

Tools

pH meter

Gas chromatography

Autoclave

Glove box

Analytical balance

Water purification systems

Laboratory software

Job description

Position Summary

Anaerobic Digestion Research and Education Center (ADREC) research technologist will conduct contract-based analyses and research studies. Will work directly with ADREC's manager on research projects. This includes lab tasks, trouble-shooting, and analyzing data.

The candidate is expected to conduct daily tasks in the ADREC lab, which may include the sample analysis, reactor operation, sample collection, and data entry. The position is also responsible for the maintenance of the general lab operations and equipment.

Primary Accountabilities Include:

• Performs tests and assays to generate data for research projects.
• Analyzes samples and record the data and experimental methods for research projects. Assists in compiling test results and preparing information for interim or final reports.
• Uses and calibrates research equipment such as pH meter, sensors, gas chromatography, computers and related software, analytical balance, autoclave, glove box and conducts preventive maintenance for water purification systems, eye-wash stations, desiccators; etc.
• Keeps the inventory of lab consumables and chemicals and informs the manager for reordering.
• Cleans the lab (furniture, benchtop, sink area, floor, etc.), takes the lab trash out, places hazardous waste pickup request, cleans and organizes the refrigerators and freezers and collects and prepares materials and data necessary for performing experiments.
• Supervises and instructs undergraduate students in the performance of basic research techniques.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge normally acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or other related field; six months to one year of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience performing basic research techniques specific to the area of research employment such as: Tissue Culture, Analytical Research, Molecular Biology, Agriculture, Social Science, Physiology, Medical Research, etc., including the use and calibration of related equipment; word processing, spreadsheet; database and/or desktop publishing software; presentation software; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Valid driver's license at the time of hire (will drive a university vehicle).

Desired Qualifications

Vocational or technical training/degree with work experience especially in operations, anaerobic digestion lab and anaerobic digestion.

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

Resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references.

Special Instructions

For more information, please contact Dr. Uludag-Demirer at [e-mail].

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://sites.google.com/msu.edu/adrec/h

Summary of Physical Demands

Lifting, pushing, pulling of 25-40 pounds, and climbing stairs.

Summary of Health Risks

Analyzing biohazardous samples.

Bidding eligibility ends October 13, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.