Send a CV, brief cover letter describing your research experiences and ongoing research interests (including specific interest in this lab) and contact information for three references to Dr. Steve Parker at scjp@umich.edu.

Applications are invited for a Research Laboratory Specialist Associate position in the laboratory of Dr. Steve Parker in the Departments of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics, Human Genetics, and Biostatistics at the University of Michigan. The major goal of the lab is to generate mechanistic knowledge about how disease susceptibility is encoded in the non-coding portion of the genome (from GWAS), with a focus on metabolic traits. We accomplish this through an interdisciplinary combination of molecular/cellular and computational approaches. We generate multiple high-throughput functional genomics data sets on the genome, epigenome, and transcriptome across species and in disease-relevant tissues/cells at single-cell multi-omic resolution and use computational approaches to integrate and analyze this data. The lab culture is one of openness, scientific rigor, friendliness, and general good humor. For more information, please see the Parker laboratory website: http://theparkerlab.org

Researchers from traditionally underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. We value diversity and inclusivity.

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

The applicant will help organize and lead research projects involving molecular biology, genomics, and genetics, which involves critical evaluation and presentation of scientific literature. In collaboration with senior research faculty and personnel, participates as skilled individual contributor and/or lead researcher on one or more research projects serving as expert in specialized area. Responsible for administrative, financial, and planning aspects of projects. Investigates, modifies and applies new procedures, techniques or applications of technology, integrating new findings in field of study. The position will focus heavily on human molecular genetic techniques including cell culture, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, DNA and RNA isolation, and library preparation for high-throughput sequencing. These approaches will be applied to tissues and cells to profile molecular signatures at bulk and single cell multi-omic (RNA-seq, ATAC-seq) level. The candidate will be responsible for processing human tissue samples and cultured cell lines for these analyses. The candidate will work both independently and in a team environment for the collection of data and analysis of research results. In addition, the candidate will be open to learning new cutting-edge methods and techniques as research opportunities develop and directions change. The candidate will be expected to perform basic laboratory maintenance and ordering as well as maintaining compliance with University of Michigan safety and lab regulations. Assists in development of research goals with responsibility for a substantial portion of project work. Expected to provide significant input into the development of procedures and in research design.

B.S. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field and 1-3 years of experience in a molecular biology lab setting with excellent cell culture and qPCR skills. The candidate should have strong written and oral communication skills, maintain laboratory records, have the ability to work under deadlines with general guidance, and to contribute to manuscripts, grants and presentations. English language proficiency is required.

M.S. degree and more experience preferred.

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.

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.

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.

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