Research Lab Technician II - Dr. Lei Laboratory

NextGen Precision Health

We are seeking a Research/Lab Technician II to join Dr. Lei Lei's laboratory at the NextGen Precision Health Institute. The Lei Lab's research focuses on ovarian function and fertility preservation, utilizing mouse models and molecular techniques. The Research Technician will play a key role in managing the laboratory's mouse colony and supporting ongoing research projects. This is a full-time position, ideal for a candidate with hands-on animal research and molecular biology experience who is passionate about contributing to biomedical research in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities include:

Mouse Colony Management: Perform daily care and monitoring of a laboratory mouse colony (breeding, weaning, health checks), and conduct genotyping of mice (DNA collection, PCR, gel electrophoresis). Ensure proper identification and recordkeeping for all animals.
Laboratory Support: Assist scientists and students with experimental procedures and troubleshooting. Prepare reagents, collect tissue samples, and execute routine lab techniques under guidance.

Lab Maintenance & Organization: Contribute to general lab upkeep, including maintenance of equipment, inventory control (ordering and stocking supplies), and accurate documentation of experimental procedures and results.

Compliance & Safety: Adhere to all animal care and laboratory safety protocols, including IACUC guidelines for animal research and required safety training. Maintain a clean, organized lab environment and uphold ethical research standards at all times.

Collaboration: Work closely with Dr. Lei and other lab members, participating in lab meetings and training sessions. Communicate effectively to contribute to a productive, inclusive research team atmosphere.

8:00 to 5:00 p.m. occasional nights and weekends

High school diploma or equivalent and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Laboratory Experience: Two or more years of hands-on lab experience, especially in a biomedical research setting. Prior experience with rodent handling and colony management is highly desired.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Familiarity with genotyping procedures and basic data analysis.
Regulatory Compliance: Experience working under IACUC protocols or similar animal care regulations. Current certifications in lab safety and animal handling.
Soft Skills: Strong organizational and record-keeping skills. Excellent teamwork and communication abilities to effectively collaborate with researchers and maintain detailed documentation.

Salary Range: $15.00 to $25.00/hr

Grade: GGS-005

University Title: Research/Lab Technician II

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Resume and cover letter

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

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.