Research Laboratory Technician Lead

How to Apply

Interested applicants should provide a cover letter detailing their specific interest in the position, CV and contact information for three references.

Job Summary

This position is largely in support of a National Science Foundation funded collaborative research grant that focuses on understanding and utilizing Paleozoic echinoderms as a model system to explore evolutionary mode. As part of this project, the UMMP is mobilizing data related to Paleozoic echinoderms to share with the scientific and public communities. The incumbent will assist in data entry, database management and curation, imaging (2D and 3D), WikiProject management, curating data for public sharing, and hosting a Digitization Workshop for undergraduate students. The incumbent will be trained on tasks as needed in a manner that complements their current abilities. This project includes collaboration with a larger museum technician team and will involve supervising and mentoring undergraduate technicians.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Why Work at Michigan?

Benefits

We are so proud that the University of Michigan offers comprehensive benefits to support your wellness as you plan for a stable and secure future. To enhance a career filled with purpose and opportunity, other benefits include:

• Generous time off programs.
• Our retirement plan provides two-for-one matching contributions.
• Comprehensive options for health, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Tuition support, including the ability to take undergraduate courses in LSA at no cost.
• Meeting-free days and communication norms that help you to "unplug" from work.
• Access to deals, discounts, and attractions; see Uniquely Michigan for details.
  
  
  

While you will primarily work from our central campus in Ann Arbor, LSA offers flexible work options. To support work-life balance, LSA has an email policy that limits non-essential emails to weekday business hours. We invite you to take a look at LSA's mission, vision, and values.

Responsibilities*

Responsibilities

The list of responsibilities below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed and are not an exhaustive list of all associated responsibilities:

• Data curation in relational database (Specify) related to specimen occurrence details (e.g., geologic time, rock units, taxonomy, georeferencing localities)
• Handling of fossil specimens and ensuring archival quality of materials
• Imaging of fossil specimens and post processing of images in Photoshop
• Producing 3D photogrammetric models of specimens
• Migrating and updating metadata into the Digital Asset Management System (ResourceSpace) using R scripts
• Curating and updating the project Wikidata Project page
• Collaboration with other scholars engaged on the NSF grant
• Mentorship and supervision of undergraduate student(s)
• Assist in logistical planning and development of a digitization workshop
  
  
  

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree in paleontology, geology, biology, museum studies, information science, or a closely related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 3-5 years of experience in a curatorial or similarly relative role
• Experience with data entry or curation in scientific or museum contexts.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to handle and work with museum/archival specimens (fossil, biological, or similar materials).
• Strong written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  
  
  

Desired Qualifications*

• Experience with relational databases, particularly Specify, or other natural history data management software.
• Experience with 3D photogrammetry or 3D modeling software.
• Experience mentoring or supervising students, volunteers, or staff in an academic or museum setting.
• Familiarity with NSF-funded project environments or collaborative grant-funded research teams.
  
  
  

Modes of Work

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.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, 50% effort, 9-month term-limited position with a possibility of renewal based on the availability of funding, the availability of work, and overall successful performance.

Background Screening

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.

Application Deadline

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.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.