Laboratory Aides

Job Summary

The Steele Center for Translational Medicine (SCTM) aims to identify therapeutic targets for age‑related macular degeneration (AMD) and its newest initiative, glaucoma, two leading causes of visual impairment worldwide. The SCTM is comprised of an interdisciplinary team of basic and applied researchers, clinicians, clinical staff, and national/international collaborators. Our scientific efforts center around unique resources, including a collection of over 8,000 pairs of donated human eyes – complete with full genetic profiles, images, and ophthalmic and medical histories – and a large study cohort of AMD and glaucoma patients.

This research aims to help better understand genotype‑directed disease mechanisms, identify causal pathways and targets, and develop novel therapies to halt blinding eye diseases.

Performs non‑technical procedures in a research laboratory and maintains laboratory facilities, equipment and records.

• File and maintain research records and logs of research data.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment usage and maintenance.
• Knowledge of ocular structure and pathology, specifically as it relates to age‑related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma.
  • This will be taught to candidates once hired.
• Availability to perform on‑call functions. These functions include:
  • Maintains the physical environment of the lab.
  • Collect human donor eyes and related tissue and blood specimens and process them according to research protocol.

The incumbent follows well‑established laboratory procedures to complete work. Sensitive or unusual situations are referred to the supervisor. Work is performed under the close supervision of senior laboratory personnel. Work is frequently reviewed for accuracy and to ensure adherence to research protocols.

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).

Seldom: Exposure to animals.

Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT : 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Laboratory Aide, I: Requires little to no related experience.

Work history in a research lab (preferred but not required). This is an entry‑level position and on‑the‑job training is provided. The ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions, keep accurate records, and demonstrate effective communication skills is required. A general knowledge of laboratory procedures, equipment, and terminology; the ability to operate and care for laboratory equipment; and a knowledge of appropriate specimen‑handling techniques is preferred.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at  for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post‑retirement rules and restrictions.

Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366‑7770 or (800) 695‑4877 or University Human Resource Management at  if you have questions regarding the post‑retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen. The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with…