Research/Lab Technician – Dr. Dunpeng Cai Lab

Hiring Department

Department of Surgery-Research.

Job Description

The Department of Surgery at the University of Missouri School of Medicine is seeking a motivated, dependable, and detail-oriented Research Technician to join the laboratory of Dunpeng Cai, PhD.

The Cai Laboratory conducts translational cardiovascular research focused on understanding and treating vascular and heart valve diseases. Major research areas include Marfan syndrome and other inherited aortic diseases, thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm and dissection, atherosclerosis, vascular remodeling, and calcific aortic valve disease. Current projects integrate molecular and cellular biology, advanced imaging, genetically engineered animal models and human vascular cells and tissues.

Responsibilities

The Research Technician will play an integral role in supporting daily laboratory operations and advancing multiple ongoing research projects. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting experiments according to established protocols and maintaining accurate laboratory records
• Collecting, organizing, analyzing, and managing experimental data
• Maintaining mouse colonies, coordinating breeding, and performing PCR-based genotyping
• Assisting with animal experiments, tissue collection, physiological assessments, and ultrasound imaging
• Performing molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA, RNA, and protein extraction; PCR and qPCR; Western blotting; immunostaining; and related assays
• Maintaining primary vascular cell cultures and established cell lines
• Processing vascular and cardiac tissues and performing histological and immunohistochemical analyses
• Preparing reagents, media, buffers, and other laboratory supplies
• Assisting with the preparation of research reports, figures, presentations, and manuscripts
• Maintaining laboratory inventories, equipment, and a clean and safe research environment
• Ensuring proper handling and disposal of biological and chemical waste and compliance with institutional laboratory and animal-research requirements
  
  

The ideal candidate will be reliable, organized, attentive to detail, and willing to learn new techniques. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively is essential. This position provides extensive hands-on experience in molecular biology, cell culture, cardiovascular animal models, imaging, histology, and translational research. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in biomedical science, cardiovascular research, precision medicine, or future graduate or professional training.

Shift

Monday – Friday

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Minimum Qualifications

A high school diploma or an equivalent combination of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $15.00 - $18.00 hourly

Grade: GGS - 004

University Title: RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

In addition to the Online Application, please provide Resume and cover letter.

Sponsorship Information

Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.