Summary

The Paulson lab is looking to hire an eager Research Technician Senior to spearhead the generation of stem cell lines and organoids with different molecular manipulations using siRNA, CRISPR, ASOs and additional techniques as the need arises.     

The overarching goals of the laboratory are to 1) understand the mechanisms that regulate protein quality control in neurons and 2) to determine why deficits in these pathways lead to protein misfolding/aggregation and neurotoxicity. We study these pathways with the goal of developing potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease, frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and polyglutamine expansion diseases (Huntington disease, spinocerebellar ataxias).

The successful candidate will work alongside existing lab members to design, perform, and interpret experiments focused on disease-linked proteins that regulate or disrupt protein quality control in the cell.  In addition, they will supervise and help train undergraduate research assistants and junior technicians in the lab. 

Training will be provided as needed, but we desire candidates who have some previous experience with molecular biology, CRISPR, and stem cell culture.  Candidates with diverse skill sets in cellular and molecular and biology are still very much encouraged to apply if they have the aptitude to learn these techniques, work well with others, and possess strong critical thinking skills. Preference will be given to applicants who seek more than 2 years of commitment to this position.  Long term employment and career advancement opportunities are available within our lab.

The Paulson Lab has a strong commitment to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our collaborations and within our research team.  We expect all candidates to embrace their role in making our lab environment supportive to all and represent these values both professionally and socially as ambassadors of our laboratory and the University of Michigan.

Responsibilities*

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Laboratory maintenance
• Conduct experiments
• Analyze data
• Train users in equipment operation and standard techniques
• Participate in periodic research discussions
• Present data and plans for new experiments
• Collaborate with colleagues to achieve short- and long-range plans
• Help assemble manuscripts, chapters, and research abstracts
• Additional duties as assigned

Required Qualifications*

• Requirements include a bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences, including molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience or a related discipline
• Minimum 1 year experience required.  
• Candidates will be expected to actively take part in collaborations
• Applicants should be reliable and able to work well within a group
• 2-year commitment to the position

Desired Qualifications*

• 1-2 years of laboratory experience which could include classroom laboratory experience or employment
• Familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques including mammalian and primary cell culture, DNA/RNA extraction and purification, cloning, PCR, and western blotting
• Experience in using CRISPR techniques in cell culture
• Experience with stem cell culture
• Experience with organoid culture

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/AA Statement

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

U-M COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

COVID-19 vaccinations, including one booster when eligible, are required for all University of Michigan students, faculty and staff across all campuses, including Michigan Medicine.  This includes those working remotely and temporary workers.   More information on this new policy is available on the U-M Health Response website or the UM-Dearborn and UM-Flint websites.