Job Description

Job Summary
The Michigan Center for Translational Pathology (MCTP) is a premier research laboratory within the University of Michigan Medical School at the forefront of precision oncology. We are seeking a meticulous Lab Specialist Associate to join our team in developing a novel liquid biopsy platform for the detection and monitoring of cancer through circulating RNA.

In this role, you will be vital to our pipeline that transforms patient blood samples into high-quality genomic data. This position requires an individual who thrives in a high-precision environment and is committed to mastery of the required laboratory protocols.

Responsibilities*
Sample Processing: Execute end-to-end processing of clinical blood samples from healthy donors and cancer patients.
Molecular Protocols: Perform complex workflows including nucleic acid isolation (RNA/DNA) from plasma, enzymatic DNA digestion, and hybridization capture.
NGS Library Preparation: Lead high-throughput sequencing library construction and rigorous Quality Control (QC) assessments.
Data Integrity: Maintain impeccable records of protocols, sample tracking, and experimental outcomes to ensure reproducibility and clinical relevance.
Lab Stewardship: Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient molecular laboratory environment.
Required Qualifications*
Associate level requirements:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science
Experience: Minimum of 1-3 years of hands-on experience in a molecular biology laboratory (post-undergraduate experience preferred)

Technical Precision: Proven ability to master complex, multi-step protocols with high reproducibility and attention to detail.
Intermediate level requirements:

Education: Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science

Experience: Minimum of 4-5 years of hands-on experience in a molecular biology laboratory
Desired Qualifications*
Genomics Expertise: Direct experience with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows, specifically library prep and hybridization capture.
Analytical Skills: Familiarity with QC tools (e.g., Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Qubit).
Mindset: A proactive problem-solver who excels in a fast-paced, mission-driven research setting.