How to Apply

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.

Job Summary

The Clowney Lab studies the developmental mechanisms that pattern neuronal connectivity in chemosensory systems, using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. In one of our projects, we study how these circuits become sexually differentiated during development, such that male and female animals have different behavioral responses to the same stimuli. In this ongoing project, we seek to identify protein-protein interactions that are important for neural development. The lab seeks to hire a technician who would perform genetic and biochemical experiments in relation to this project, as well as assist others working on related areas.

The Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) conducts basic research about the function of all branches of life ? bacteria, plants, and animals. The research portfolio includes more than 40 sponsored awards, amounting to more than $8 million. We are also home to the more 300 students each year who graduate with majors in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology; plant biology; biology, health and society; and microbiology. 

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.

Responsibilities*

Duties of the position include:

• Lab management including ordering, inventory, lab safety, and equipment maintenance (15% effort)
• Methods development ? Following existing experiment methods from literature and peers, assessing their effectiveness, and troubleshooting for improved outcomes (35% effort)
• Experiments as follows (50% effort):
  • Generation of transgenic or mutant Drosophila alleles through cloning and plasmid construction
  • Drosophila husbandry and genetics
  • Fly brain dissection, staining, and imaging
  • Generation of large animal cohorts for proteomic experiments
  • Western blots, protein quantification
  • Preparation of mass spectrometry samples
  • Analysis and follow-up of mass spectrometry data

Required Qualifications*

• Knowledge of Drosophila genetics, biochemistry, mass spectrometry
• Highschool Diploma or associates degree and 1-2 years experience

Desired Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree in genetics, neuroscience, development, or molecular biology
• Significant expertise in Drosophila genetics and husbandry
• Experience purifying and measuring proteins from multicellular organisms
• Ability to problem-solve
• Ability to work with a team of researchers with varied backgrounds, training levels, and interests

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 term-limited position through June 30, 2025. There is a possibility of renewal depending upon performance and funding

As one of the world's great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.

To learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion in LSA, please visit lsa.umich.edu/lsa/dei.

To learn more about LSA?s Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.

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/AA Statement

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