Research Technician Senior

Job Summary

The Department of Environmental Health Sciences in the School of Public Health at the University of Michigan has a position opening for a Research Technician. This is a one year term appointment, expected to continue based on funding availability and is not eligible for visa sponsorship. This will be a hybrid position with the majority of time on site.

The Harris Lab is seeking a full-time Research Technician to pursue research on environmental exposures and bacterial infections in pregnancy. The Harris lab investigates the effects of chemical exposures on immune functions in the tissues of pregnancy (e.g., placenta, uterus, fetal membranes) using tissue cultures, cell lines and animal models. Exposures under investigation include chemicals such as trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The lab is particularly interested in how chemical exposure may undermine immune responses to pathogenic bacteria in pregnancy tissues. Mechanisms of interest include impacts on macrophage function (e.g., phagocytosis) and antimicrobial peptide release.

• Planning and execution of research experiments in pregnant rats, tissue culture models, and cell lines with minimal supervision. Example experiments include treating rats or cell cultures with toxicants or bacteria and assessing biological responses using a variety of assays.
• Analysis of data using statistical software as well as data interpretation, adjusting experimental plans as new data are generated and the objectives of the project shift.
• Providing recommendations to the PI about next steps.
• Presenting data at local and national meetings and leading manuscript preparation.
• Carrying out general lab duties, including troubleshooting and optimization of experimental protocols, managing inventory and regulatory compliance, training and mentoring new personnel.

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or other related sciences and at least 1-2 years of experience working in cell or tissue culture. Master's degree strongly desired.

Ability to work independently and lead 1-2 research projects essential.

Experience with data management and analysis in software such as Graphpad, R, etc. highly desired.

Excellent oral and written communication skills essential.

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

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.