Research Lab Tech Intermediate - Maurer Lab

They explicitly note that "vibe coding counts" for basic coding skills, so vibe coding is accepted as relevant coding experience.

About the Role

The Maurer Lab at the University of Michigan seeks a Research Lab Technician (Intermediate) to support rAAV gene therapy research by preparing and applying viral vector stocks, performing mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, microscopy and qPCR, collecting and analyzing experimental data, and maintaining lab records.

Role

The Maurer Lab (Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan) is hiring a Research Lab Technician (Intermediate) to support studies combining super-resolution microscopy with genomic, biochemical, and proteomic approaches for rAAV gene therapy research. The role focuses on wet-lab work including rAAV vector preparation and application, mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, microscopy, qPCR, high-content imaging, and data collection/analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and apply rAAV vector stocks to cultured cells
• Perform and maintain mammalian cell culture and sterile technique
• Collect data via microscopy, qPCR, plate readers, and high-content imaging
• Establish and run high-content imaging workflows and perform data collection
• Optimize and troubleshoot AAV transduction and production protocols
• Perform live and fixed cell microscopy
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to pipeline development
• Maintain detailed records in LabArchives and ensure quality control of reagents and titration results
• Contribute intellectually to experimental planning and communicate results via publications and presentations

Requirements

• BS in a molecular and cellular biology-related field with at least 2 years of wet-lab experience
• Expertise in mammalian cell culture and sterile technique
• Experience with multichannel pipetting, 96-well plate assays, and fluorescence/luminescence plate readers
• Experience with molecular cloning techniques (Gibson assembly, PCR, restriction digests, ligation)
• Ability to read, interpret, and critically evaluate primary scientific literature
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word; some scientific writing experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SnapGene, CellProfiler or CellPose, and LabArchives software
• Basic coding skills (posting notes that “vibe coding counts”)
• Generous time off programs
• Retirement plan with two-for-one matching contributions
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance options
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
• Tuition support (ability to take undergraduate LSA courses at no cost)
• Meeting-free days and communication norms to limit non-essential after-hours email
• Access to deals, discounts, and local attractions
• Modes of work: Onsite
• Appointment: Full-time, 12-month term-limited position (possibility of renewal)
• Salary range: $31,520.00 - $38,854.00

Skills

Mammalian Cell Culture Molecular Cloning Microscopy qPCR High-Content Imaging Wet Lab Techniques Sterile Technique Troubleshooting Data Analysis Laboratory Record Keeping Scientific Communication Multichannel Pipetting Experimental Planning

Experience Level

Mid

USD 31,520 - 38,854/year

Employment Type

Full-time

• Generous time off programs
• Retirement plan with two-for-one matching contributions
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare
• Flexible spending accounts for dependent care
• Tuition support (ability to take undergraduate LSA courses at no cost)
• Meeting-free days and communication norms
• Access to deals, discounts, and attractions