Job Details

Sr Laboratory Specialist

Position Number: 6389364
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Position Type: Laboratory and Research

Sr Laboratory Specialist

Job Summary

The Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Utah invites applications for an immediate Sr. Lab Specialist position in Dr. Paul S. Bernstein's laboratory. Translational research focuses on the role of nutrition to treat and prevent retinal diseases throughout the lifespan. The Bernstein Lab, situated on the upper campus of the University of Utah, benefits from extensive access to state-of-the-art core facilities and resources, as well as a vibrant collaborative research community.

Responsibilities
Essential Functions

1. Applies independent judgment in order to assess the validity of data collected and to interpret results.
2. Devises, refines and implements new techniques or modifies existing processes by utilizing advanced knowledge.
3. Directs the daily operation of the lab including hiring and training subordinates.
4. Prepares, operates and maintains laboratory and experimental testing equipment.
5. May coauthor research papers and publications.
6. May represent the University by presenting research and findings to peers at conventions and conferences.Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:Nearly Continuously: Office environment.Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be requiredNearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific discipline or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience), plus four years of related full-time laboratory experience required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences
A Bachelor's or Master's in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Cell Biology or a related field with at least 4years of laboratory experience is preferred.

The candidate should be a team player, possess excellent analytical and critical thinking skills and have strong oral/written communications skills.

Preference will be given to candidates with experience in human tissue dissection, managing a mouse colony, and working with sophisticated analytical instruments. Specific cellular and molecular biology skills required include DNA/RNA isolation, cDNA cloning, PCR, qRT-PCR, mammalian cell culture (both primary cells and cell lines), Western blot analysis and cell-based assay development.

Previous safety officer experience in a laboratory environment handling potentially infectious samples is desired. Strong organizational skills are expected.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN42506B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary: Monday - Friday | Typically 8:00am to 5:00pm
Department: 00870 - Ophthalmology-Research
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $52,000 to $62,000
Close Date: 10/16/2025
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/185784