Research Job at University of Michigan, USA | Biology Candidates, Apply Now & Earn Upto $53,400
A University of Michigan research job is available for aspiring scientists. The Duhaime laboratory in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is seeking a Research Lab Specialist Associate to lead its Great Lakes microplastics research program. This position offers an opportunity for early-career scientists to take on project leadership roles.
- Job Title: Research Lab Specialist Associate – Duhaime Lab
- Job Opening ID: 282006
- Work Location: Ann Arbor Campus, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department: LSA Ecology & Evolutionary Bio
- Career Interest: Research
About The University
The University of Michigan is a prestigious public research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, the institution serves a diverse student body and is dedicated to advancing knowledge across various fields. The university emphasizes creating, communicating, and applying knowledge while developing leaders and citizens who contribute positively to society.
University of Michigan Research Job Summary
The Duhaime laboratory is seeking a Research Lab Specialist Associate to lead the lab’s Great Lakes microplastics research program. This position will take ownership of field sampling campaigns, refine and expand existing water-sampling protocols, develop new sediment analysis protocols, establish a new fish and benthic invertebrate ecotoxicology study, and supervise undergraduate researchers supporting this work. This University of Michigan research job is an ideal opportunity for an early-career scientist to grow into a project-leadership role within a large-scale, multi-partner environmental science effort.
Key Responsibilities
- Refine existing water-sampling and filtration protocols and develop new sediment analysis protocols for microplastics detection.
- Establish and maintain a new ecotoxicology system for fish and invertebrate (worm) exposure studies, including husbandry, exposure setup, and equipment maintenance.
- Perform routine laboratory work including sample processing, filtration, and basic microscopy/spectroscopy sample prep.
- Train and supervise undergraduate researchers supporting the microplastics project.
- Maintain lab supply inventory relevant to the project.
- Lead field sampling campaigns for the Great Lakes microplastics project, including water and sediment collection.
- Coordinate logistics for field trips, including multi-day and vessel-based sampling.
- Analyze microplastics data using established spectroscopy and imaging workflows.
University of Michigan Research Job Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field (recent graduates welcome).
- 1 to 3 years of related experience.
- Traveling required for field work.
- Experience with field sampling in an aquatic/freshwater setting.
- Experience with standard molecular/microbiological lab techniques.
- Programming experience in R or Python for data management and analysis.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple concurrent project tasks.
Required Skills
- Master’s Degree preferred.
- Experience with microplastics sampling, extraction, or spectroscopic analysis.
- Experience with aquatic organism culturing, husbandry, or ecotoxicology methods.
- Small boat operation experience.
- Experience training or mentoring undergraduate researchers.
- Scientific writing experience.
Additional Information
This is a one-year, term-limited position with the possibility of renewal based on availability of funds, availability of work, and performance. The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.
Salary: $42,600.00 – $53,400.00
How to Apply?
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
This University of Michigan research job for a Research Lab Specialist Associate in the Duhaime Lab presents an exciting pathway for early-career scientists. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline to seize this chance to contribute to impactful environmental research.
