Research Lab Tech Intermediate

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Summary

An exciting opportunity has been created for a research technician to join the Alumkal Laboratory (https://alumkal.lab.medicine.umich.edu/) at the U of M Division of Heme-Onc and the Rogel Cancer Center in Ann Arbor, MI. The individual will join as a Research Lab Technician Intermediate and work directly with Dr. Joshi Alumkal, Leader of the U of M Prostate/Genitourinary Oncology Cancer Section. He/she will be an integral member of a research team whose focus is epigenetics and drug resistance in prostate cancer. Our laboratory focuses on identifying mechanisms by which key chromatin modifying enzymes and chromatin readers drive transcription of pathways that promote treatment resistance. We use genomics studies in prostate cancer clinical samples and prostate cancer cell line model systems and functional studies to understand this process. Our goal is to develop new, targeted treatment strategies for men with advanced prostate cancer. This individual will be responsible for carrying out experiments in the laboratory, including mouse xenograft experiments and drug treatment, protein and RNA expression and purification from mammalian cells and bacteria, QPCR, Western blotting, reporter gene analysis, tissue culture of mammalian cell lines, and transfection. Assisting with clinical sample transport and processing, and management of lab consumables and equipment, will also be important parts of this role.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?

Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world’s most distinguished academic health systems.  In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.

What Benefits can you Look Forward to?

  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Responsibilities*

  • Cell culture, molecular biology techniques including: DNA/RNA/protein extraction, QPCR, and Western blots, etc. Performs mouse xenograft tumor growth experiments with drug injections or drug gavage. 
  • Orders supplies, maintains equipment 
  • Additional laboratory duties as assigned by PI

Required Qualifications*

  • Bachelor's degree (4yr) with major courses in field of research. 
  • 1-3 years experience 
  • Strong molecular biology knowledge and skills including experience with protein expression and purification. 
  • Proficiency in RNA and protein purification from mammalian cells and bacteria. 
  • Proficiency with mammalian cell culture. 
  • Experience in practical application of molecular biology techniques, such as RT-PCR, western blotting, and reporter gene analysis. 
  • Ability to prioritize between multiple tasks. 
  • Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills: both written and verbal.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems. 
  • Must be proficient with computers running Windows and PC applications e.g. MS Excel, Word and PowerPoint). 
  • Must have demonstrated excellent customer service skills both on the phone and in person. 
  • Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously. 
  • Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships.

Desired Qualifications*

  • Prior experience working in a laboratory is strongly preferred. 
  • Rodent handling experience, especially with xenograft tumor growth experiments involving injection and/or gavage treatment is preferred. 
  • Proficiency in cloning, expression, and purification of plasmids from bacteria.
  • Project management involving sample coordination, shipping, and processing.

Background Screening

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 may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.