RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN

University of Missouri-Columbia
parental leave, paid time off
United States, Missouri, Columbia
801 Conley Avenue (Show on map)
Apr 18, 2025
Hiring Department The Finegan Bergstralh Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences Job Description The Finegan Bergstralh Lab is seeking a highly motivated Research/Lab Technician to support ongoing research to answer two central research questions: How do cells orient their divisions such that daughter cells are born in the correct position? How are cells misplaced following cell division incorporated back into their parental tissue? The technician will be responsible for maintaining the lab's fruit fly stock collection, performing basic molecular biology experiments, analyzing microscopy images, and helping ensure lab safety compliance. Key Responsibilities Fruit Fly Stock Collection Management Maintain and organize stock collections Ensure proper labeling, tracking, and genetic integrity of fly stock Prepare and maintain appropriate culture conditions Molecular Biology Experiments Participate in PCR and qPCR experiments, including DNA/RNA extraction, amplification, and analysis Microscopy Image Analysis Collect and analyze cell culture microscopy images Utilize image analysis software to quantify experimental results Assist in the preparation of figures for presentations and publication Lab Health and Safety Compliance Maintain lab adherence to safety protocols and best practices, including inventory of safety materials and proper disposal of waste Research Support Assist with fly crosses, dissections, and phenotypic analysis Support cell culture maintenance and experimental preparation Contribute to general lab organization, ordering supplies, and maintaining equipment Shift Typically, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Some flexibility is permitted with supervisor approval. Minimum Qualifications A high school diploma or an equivalent combination of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Biological Science or related field Prior experience handling small insects Anticipated Hiring Range Salary Range: $15.00 to $16.16/hour Grade: GGS - 004 University Title: Research/Lab Technician Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR. Sponsorship Information Visa Sponsorship Information: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas. 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/totalrewards/benefits. 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.