Temporary Lab Technician

About the Role

The BCC PostBacc Program supports laboratory technicians in preparing for PhD studies through the development of research and professional skills essential for competitive graduate school applications. This temporary position is part of a pipeline for recruiting highly trained candidates into the University of Louisville’s PhD programs. The Nail Laboratory seeks a highly motivated, organized, and detail-orientated Laboratory Technician to support research investigating the molecular mechanisms by which environmental heavy metal exposure promotes carcinogenesis. The laboratory focuses on understanding how exposure to cadmium disrupts DNA damage response signaling, DNA repair pathways, and cellular processes involved in breast epithelial cell malignant transformation. Research approaches incorporate molecular and cellular biology, environmental toxicology, cancer biology, and molecular genetics. The successful candidate will play an integral role in establishing and maintaining laboratory operations while actively participating in research projects.

Expected start date: 11/09/2026 through 11/07/2028

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with safety standards and research protocols.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures and assist with molecular and cellular biology experiments related to DNA damage, DNA repair, and environmental carcinogenesis.
• Perform laboratory techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, protein isolation, PCR, Western blotting, and cell-based assays.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), laboratory records, and sample inventories.
• Manage laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment, including ordering, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Assist with laboratory budgets, purchasing, and resource management.
• Train and support high school, undergraduate, and graduate researchers in laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety procedures.
• Coordinate sample preparation and submission to institutional core facilities and collaborators.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data, maintaining accurate and reproducible research records.
• Apply engineering and quantitative approaches to improve experimental design, data collection, and laboratory workflows, and research efficiency.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• In-depth knowledge of laboratory safety and regulatory requirements.
• Experience in budgeting and financial management.
• Molecular and cellular biology techniques.
• Mammalian cell culture and biochemical assays.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with scientific data analysis software preferred.
• Previous experience with laboratory equipment, experimental troubleshooting, or process optimization preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a scientific discipline.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Toxicology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.