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Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced research laboratory specialist to lead a project focused on investigating the pathogenic mechanisms underlying neurologic complications of metabolic stress (diabetes, prediabetes, and obesity) and aging, with an emphasis on neuropathy and cognitive impairment. In collaboration with other members of the research team, the laboratory specialist will be responsible for the management, coordination, and implementation of in vitro and in vivo initiatives focused on specific mechanisms underlying peripheral and central nervous system damage and assessing intervention efficacy. This individual must have the ability to direct and perform all technical aspects of the neurodegeneration research program and supervise team members in project implementation. Experience with laboratory regulatory policies and training compliance will be essential. This individual must also be an effective scientific communicator, with a strong scientific background in molecular biology, scientific techniques, and application to disease research. An interest in supporting and leading a fast-paced, cutting-edge neurologic disease research program is required.

Responsibilities*Design, perform, and interpret mechanism-based studies using complementary in vivo and in vitro models to facilitate research discoveries with translational potential for neurologic complications of metabolic stress and aging. Experiments include in vivo neuropathy and cognitive phenotyping, gene expression analyses, mitochondrial function assays, biochemistry, immunocytochemistry, drug/diet/exercise intervention studies, and related techniques.Develop and lead projects focused on characterizing peripheral and central nervous system metabolic reprogramming in the context of metabolic disease, including testing direct substrate utilization, mitochondrial efficiency, mitochondrial biogenesis, enzyme activities, protein expression, and oxidative stress.Oversee biological interpretation/integration of RNA-seq and lipidomics bioinformatics output from multiple mouse models exhibiting neurologic complications to design in vitro experiments characterizing changes in lipid metabolism and cellular signaling in response to metabolic stress and aging. Experiments use primary Schwann cell, dorsal root ganglia, and cortical neuron cultures and include gene silencing/overexpression, lentiviral transfection, qPCR, immunoprecipitation, western immunoblotting, immunofluorescent microscopy, and ELISA.Establish a knowledgebase of current literature in the field to support evaluation of current research methods and identify potential problems, recommend and implement solutions, and improve and optimize workflows. Compile figures and summary reports of study data and prepare grant applications and manuscripts for research conducted.Maintain collaborations between key university core facilities and internal and external collaboratorsMentor and train fellows, undergraduate students, and technical personnelPresent work at scientific seminars and conferences.Required Qualifications*Strong oral and written communication skills required, with a minimum of 5 peer-reviewed articles demonstrating a strong scientific background in biological scienceMust have a positive, collaborative, and flexible attitude suitable for working in a large academic laboratory environmentMust be capable of working independently on fast-paced, cutting-edge researchMust have excellent planning, organizational, and work coordination skillsComputer skills required

Research Lab Specialist Lead

Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or medical-related field, At least 6 years of biomedical or academic laboratory research experience

Research Lab Specialist Senior

Bachelor?s Degree required. 5-6 years of related experience, i.e., published in a field of specialty and academic knowledge in a field or discipline. Desired Qualifications*Eight or more peer-reviewed publications desired.Experience in molecular biology, sample collection, processing, and analysis preferredA background in neuroscience, neuropathy, and/or neurodegeneration, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, is desiredModes 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.

Underfill Statement

This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.

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.