A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

The Brunaugh Lab at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy is seeking a full-time Research Laboratory Specialist Associate to support interdisciplinary research in drug delivery and respiratory infectious disease. This position will play a central role in executing in vitro and in vivo experiments across multiple funded projects in a fast-paced, collaborative academic environment.  The role includes responsibility for animal handling and procedures, cell and molecular assays, microscopy, and microbiological techniques, as well as maintaining accurate data records and contributing to lab organization. The individual will provide essential technical continuity across multiple projects and ensure timely progress toward research milestones

Primary responsibilities include performing mammalian cell culture (including primary airway cells), conducting molecular and biochemical assays (e.g., PCR, Western blot, ELISA), managing a research mouse colony, and carrying out in vivo experiments involving drug delivery and tissue collection. The individual will also contribute to microbiology workflows, fluorescence/confocal microscopy, and general lab organization, including data management and compliance with biosafety protocols.

• 25% - Perform mammalian cell culture and microbiology experiments, including maintenance of primary cells and microbial cultures, sterile technique, and related preparations.
• 20% - Conduct molecular and biochemical assays such as PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and related quantitative analysis following SOPs.
• 20% - Perform animal research procedures, including compound administration via multiple routes (e.g., intratracheal, oral, IP), tissue collection via necropsy, and basic post-mortem analyses.
• 15% - Manage laboratory mouse colony, including breeding, genotyping, record keeping, and coordinating with ULAM on veterinary care.
• 20% - Maintain laboratory organization, data records, and equipment readiness, including microscopy sample prep, inventory, and biosafety compliance

• Bachelor of Science
• At least 1 year of hands-on research experience in a biomedical or life sciences laboratory, including experience with animal models or molecular biology techniques (can include undergraduate or post-bac research)
• Mammalian cell culture, molecular biology assays (e.g., PCR, Western blotting), and rodent handling
• Basic understanding of experimental design, sterile technique, and biosafety procedures
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, ImageJ); familiarity with electronic lab notebook systems preferred
• Ability to work with laboratory animals and biohazardous materials in accordance with institutional protocols
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow protocols with minimal supervision
• Willingness to work occasional flexible hours to support time-sensitive animal experiments

• Masters degree in Pharmacology, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology or related field. 
• 3 years of hands-on research experience in a biomedical or life sciences laboratory 

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.

This is a 2 year term-limited appointment through 7/30/2027, with the potential of renewal dependent on grant funding.

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.