What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Lab Specialist Senior position at University of Michigan Health System?
Job Opening ID
262459
Working Title
Research Lab Specialist Senior
Job Title
Research Lab Specialist Senior
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
Medical School
Department
MM Orthopaedic Surgery
Posting Begin/End Date
4/16/2025 - 4/23/2025
Career Interest
Research
How to Apply
To be considered, please submit a 1-page cover letter concisely outlining your research interests and experience, in addition to your specific interest in this position; also attach a full CV and provide two professional references.
Job Summary
The Michigan Medicine Department of Orthopaedic Surgery provides outstanding, state-of-the-art, evidence-based care for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. As well, our faculty, staff, and trainees conduct a diverse range of musculoskeletal research and scholarship. The departments research program integral to its mission and vision of leading advances in musculoskeletal health, through excellence and innovative care, scientific discovery, and dedicated teaching.
Research in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery (ORL) is conducted by a diverse group of faculty, staff and trainees with expertise in biology, engineering, epidemiology, health outcomes and healthcare. The collaborative research programs are focused on improving treatment or preventing musculoskeletal disorders and disease. Primary basic science research operations are located at the Biomedical Science Research Building, with additional clinical research sites. ORL website: https://orl.med.umich.edu/
Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world’s most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
- Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
- 2:1 Match on retirement savings
Responsibilities*
- Develop, design, and conduct complex research experiments focused on HIF (Hypoxia-Inducible Factor) signaling in bone and cartilage, ensuring alignment with research objectives, regularly reviewing progress, and evaluating results.
- Formulate and refine research methodologies, identifying opportunities for improving experimental quality, troubleshooting challenges, and implementing solutions, with an emphasis on musculoskeletal cells and metabolic assays related to HIF signaling.
- Train and mentor laboratory users in the operation of specialized equipment and advanced laboratory techniques, with a focus on high-resolution imaging for HIF-related research. Develop automated codes for image analysis and perform bone morphometry assessments.
- Collaborate with users to adapt and optimize experimental methodologies for specific research needs, contributing to the development of novel techniques in the study of HIF signaling in musculoskeletal disorders, while leading the HIF signaling project area.
- Coordinate data collection, screening, and verification, ensuring high-quality and accurate data for ongoing experiments focused on HIF signaling and musculoskeletal tissue.
- Analyze complex data sets, interpret results, and implement research strategies based on data outcomes, particularly in the context of HIF signaling and its impact on bone and cartilage metabolism.
- Co-author publications and present research findings, including HIF-related discoveries, at academic conferences and meetings alongside the Principal Investigator.
- Assist in grant writing and application processes, with a focus on advancing basic research in HIF signaling and musculoskeletal diseases.
Required Qualifications*
- Masters degree or Doctoral degree in a relevant field (preferred).
- At least 5 to 6 years of related experience, specifically with transgenic mice models, including gene mutations related to the HIF signaling pathway (both loss- and gain-of-function models).
- Expertise in musculoskeletal tissue, particularly bone and cartilage, with a strong understanding of HIF signaling in these tissues.
- Proficiency in protein analysis of HIF, including experience with Western blotting and HIF-specific staining techniques.
- Experience working with various mouse models, particularly those used in HIF signaling and musculoskeletal research.
- Strong supervisory experience and financial management skills.
- Ability to analyze, compare, and evaluate different courses of action, with the authority to make independent decisions on significant matters within the scope of responsibilities, without immediate supervision.
- Proven experience in project management, including planning, executing, and conducting research projects in HIF signaling and related areas.
Desired Qualifications*
- PhD with Postdoctoral experience in a relevant field, preferably related to HIF signaling, musculoskeletal biology, or cellular metabolism.\
- Hands-on experience with fracture mouse models, osteoarthritis models, and cartilage development, particularly in the context of HIF signaling and its effects on bone and cartilage regeneration.
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 .
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
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.