Details

Open Date 02/01/2024

Requisition Number PRN37591B

Job Title Lab Technician

Working Title Lab Technician (Biochemistry - Matt Miller's lab)

Job Grade C

FLSA Code Nonexempt

Patient Sensitive Job Code? No

Standard Hours per Week 40

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Shift Day

Work Schedule Summary

To be determined with the supervisor.

VP Area U of U Health - Academics

Department 01502 - Department of Biochemistry

Location Campus

City Salt Lake City, UT

Type of Recruitment External Posting

Pay Rate Range $15 - $19

Close Date

Open Until Filled No

Job Summary

The Miller Lab ( https://www.miller.biochem.utah.edu/ ) in the Department of Biochemistry is looking for a Research Technician to join our team. We are an interdisciplinary molecular biology lab that uses yeast as a model system to study how cells ensure the correct distribution of chromosomes to daughter cells when they ultimately divide. Chromosome segregation errors are the leading cause of miscarriages and congenital birth defects and are the most prevalent genetic alteration in tumor cells. Despite this, we know very little about why chromosome segregation is so defective in these circumstances. We have recently made several exciting discoveries regarding factors that play a key role in ensuring accurate chromosome segregation ( https://miller.biochem.utah.edu/publications ), and are currently following up on these findings.

We are seeking someone to perform bench-level experiments, provide technical research assistance, and assist in general lab organization. The anticipated duration for this position is a minimum of two years.

Responsibilities

This position will work under the direction of the Principal Investigator or higher-level lab members, and uses critical thinking skills to carry out experiments. This role entails conducting a diverse range of compelling experiments at the bench level to support investigative work, comprising yeast genetics, cell biology, and biochemistry (approximately 75% effort). Additionally, responsibilities include the management and maintenance of the lab’s consumables and equipment (approximately 25%). The Research Technician may also provide mentorship to first-year graduate students and undergraduates, along with performing other duties as needed.

• Perform experiments, utilizing assays which may include some or all of the following: Immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, Molecular biology techniques ( PCR & cloning), Microscopy, Yeast Genetics, Optical Trapping, and more\!
• Prepare and maintain laboratory reagents, as well as order appropriate levels of supplies.
• Aid in maintaining lab equipment and partnering with the Engineering Dept. for repairs.
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or other scientific disciplines in a related field or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required; knowledge of complex laboratory techniques, equipment, terminology, materials and substances. Skilled in the use of laboratory equipment, ability to create and analyze statistical calculations and prepare reports required; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required. OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.

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

Preferences

Hands-on experience with molecular biology ( PCR , gel electrophoresis, cloning), biochemical (immunoprecipitation and Western blotting) and microbial techniques is preferred, but not required.

The ideal candidate must be self-motivated, organized, comfortable communicating with people verbally and in writing in a professional capacity, have a superior work ethic, and be able to multitask and prioritize responsibilities.

Type Benefited Staff

Special Instructions Summary

Additional Information

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 (801) 581-7447 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 (801) 581-7447 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 students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.

All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ( OEO /AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/

Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu

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