Life Science Jobs for Freshers at Michigan Medicine | Research Lab Tech | Apply Now
Securing a University of Michigan career at the Kresge Hearing Research Institute is an exceptional milestone for early-career scientists. The laboratory of Dr. Yunlu Zhu, within the Department of Otolaryngology, is currently seeking a motivated individual for a Research Lab Tech position (Intermediate or Associate level). This role is specifically designed to be one of the premier Life Science Jobs for Freshers in 2026, offering a rare opportunity to study how the brain transforms gravitational signals into balance using the larval zebrafish as a model system. Whether you are a recent graduate or have a few years of experience, this Research Job provides the hands-on training and technical exposure needed to excel in the field of neuroscience.
- Job Opening ID:Â 273973
- Working Title: Research Lab Tech Intermediate Underfill Research Lab Tech Associate
- Work Location:Â Ann Arbor Campus, Ann Arbor, MI
About The Organization
Michigan Medicine is the heart of the university’s mission to advance health through a “best-in-class” research enterprise. Since the founding of the medical school in 1850, it has been a site of groundbreaking medical firsts, and today, it remains a destination for top-tier scientists and clinicians. The university serves diverse populations and leads the nation in evidence-based education, ensuring that your University of Michigan career contributes to both local wellness and global scientific breakthroughs.
About the Lab
The Zhu Lab investigates the neural architecture of the vestibular system. By using larval zebrafish—small, transparent, and genetically tractable organisms—the team can visualize the entire brain in action as the fish navigates its 3D environment.
- Research Goals: Understanding how neural circuits interpret gravity, how movement is initiated to stabilize posture, and how balance can be restored after injury or disease.
- The Model System: Larval zebrafish are ideal because they share significant genetic and physiological similarities with humans, yet their transparency allows for non-invasive functional imaging.
- Technological Integration: The lab combines genetics, fluorescence imaging, behavioral tracking, and computational modeling to map the “logic” of balance.
Key Responsibilities of Life Science Jobs for Freshers
In this Research Job, you will be an integral part of the scientific process, moving from basic animal husbandry to advanced data generation and manuscript preparation.
Experimental Execution and Microscopy
- Fluorescent Screening: Identify transgenic zebrafish by screening embryos for specific fluorescent markers.
- Microscopy Experiments: Conduct high-resolution fluorescence microscopy to visualize neural activity and structure.
- Behavioral Assays: Perform quantitative assays to measure how zebrafish react to changes in orientation and movement.
- Line Maintenance: Ensure the health and genetic integrity of various transgenic zebrafish lines.
Data Stewardship and Lab Operations
- Data Analysis: Assist with the collection, organization, and quality control of large datasets.
- Scientific Writing: Contribute to the generation of results and figures for scientific manuscripts.
- Administrative Support: Help with general laboratory operations, including compliance tasks, chemical inventory, and scientific administration.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities may arise to present research posters and presentations at scientific conferences.
Life Science Jobs for Freshers – Qualifications & Expertise Required
This position is unique because it is posted as an “Underfill.” This means the University can hire at either the Associate or Intermediate level depending on the candidate’s experience, making it one of the most accessible Life Science Jobs for Freshers.
Associate Level (Entry Level)
- Education: HS Diploma or Associate Degree (Bachelor’s in Life Sciences preferred).
- Experience: 0–1 years of laboratory experience.
- Skills: Effective communication skills and a strong willingness to learn experimental techniques.
Intermediate Level
- Education: HS Diploma or Associate Degree.
- Experience: 1–2 years of relevant research experience.
- Skills: Demonstrated ability to execute and coordinate research tasks with limited supervision.
Desired Technical Skills
- Experience with basic “wet-lab” techniques like PCR and electrophoresis.
- Familiarity with computer programming or specialized imaging software.
- A commitment to stay with the lab for a minimum of two years to see projects through to completion.
In summary, this Research Job in the Zhu Lab is a standout among Life Science Jobs for Freshers due to its focus on high-end imaging and vestibular neuroscience. By launching your University of Michigan career here in 2026, you gain the technical mastery and mentorship required to transition into advanced graduate or medical studies. If you are a curious, motivated individual ready to explore the mysteries of balance and gravity, the Zhu Lab provides the innovative environment and the technological tools to make your mark on the scientific community.
