Research Laboratory Technician Senior

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

The PACE Laboratory in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences develops records of climate and environmental variability from recent Earth history, often through analyzing the geochemical archives that are preserved in coral skeletons. The lab group is seeking a motivated, enthusiastic individual with strong scientific intuition, excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, and a learning mentality to fill a new Research Technician position.

The candidate will contribute to research focused on geochemistry, coral growth analysis, and environmental history through sample preparation, routine instrumental operation of scientific instruments, and support of laboratory record‑keeping. The position offers an opportunity to work in a highly collaborative and collegial research environment, gain experience with state‑of‑the‑art methods, and contribute to scientific research in the Earth and Environmental Sciences.

The lab anticipates hiring for 20 hours per week, not to exceed 30 hours per week, although there is a possibility this could increase as funding and workload permits.

The main responsibilities include specialized sample preparation, day‑to‑day operation of scientific instruments, data collection, organization and record keeping. The candidate will also help maintain research supplies, keep detailed records of laboratory procedures, evaluate results, and support general laboratory operations. The candidate will have the opportunity to assist in the preparation of research papers and meeting presentations.

• Bachelor's degree and experience in the earth sciences or a related field (physics, chemistry, etc.) and 1-2 years of laboratory experience (can include undergraduate or part‑time laboratory work).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team, multi‑task, and develop solutions to basic technical problems.
• Strong attention to detail for closely following laboratory procedures and maintaining accurate records.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• More than 2 years of experience working in a scientific research laboratory with complex instrumentation or in a geochemistry laboratory context.
• Record of contribution to publications.

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 any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

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.