Find The RightJob.
Laboratory Technician I, II
The Pitha Lab is hiring a Lab Technician. Our research focuses on the role of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix remodeling in glaucoma. We study how mechanical stress, aging, and inflammatory signaling alter scleral and ocular connective tissues, and how these processes influence glaucoma progression and surgical outcomes. Our lab integrates molecular biology, advanced imaging, animal models, and biomaterials to develop new strategies to modulate wound healing and fibrosis. This person will be performing semi-technical laboratory and research procedures under the general supervision of senior laboratory personnel.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
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.
This position requires the ability to independently organize and evaluate experimental data and assist the principal investigator with preparing results for presentations and publications. The technician will troubleshoot experimental issues, identify potential solutions, and communicate challenges to the principal investigator when additional guidance is needed.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description. Experience with the following techniques is preferred; however, motivated candidates who can quickly learn new methods are encouraged to apply.
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.
This position requires the ability to independently organize and evaluate experimental data and assist the principal investigator with preparing results for presentations and publications. The technician will troubleshoot experimental issues, identify potential solutions, and communicate challenges to the principal investigator when additional guidance is needed.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description. Experience with the following techniques is preferred; however, motivated candidates who can quickly learn new methods are encouraged to apply.
- Basic mammalian cell culture techniques (aseptic technique, media preparation, cell passaging)
- Molecular biology techniques such as RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis
- Laboratory organization and record keeping, including maintenance of detailed experimental logs
- Ability to follow established protocols and assist in developing new experimental procedures
- Data organization and basic analysis using Excel, Prism, or similar software
- Histology and tissue processing (fixation, embedding, sectioning, staining)
- Immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence microscopy
- RNA extraction and qPCR workflows
- Experience working with animal tissues or small animal models
- Confocal or fluorescence microscopy
- Basic image analysis (ImageJ/Fiji or similar tools)
- Experience with biomaterials or implant–tissue interaction studies
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Laboratory Technician, I: Requires little to no related experience.
Laboratory Technician, II: Requires at least 1 year of related experience.
This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated vaccination requirements, or be approved for an exemption, prior to the first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards andhospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.
Preferences
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 are also required. Working effectively in a laboratory environment requires:
- Strong attention to detail and reproducibility in experimental work
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team
- Strong communication and time-management skills
- OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.
Type
Benefited Staff
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students from diverse backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education for historically underrepresented students.
Individuals from historically underrepresented groups, such as minorities, women, qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action:
Director/ Title IX Coordinator
Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (OEO/AA)
383 University Street, Level 1 OEO Suite
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
801-581-8365
oeo@utah.edu
Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu
For more information: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/
To inquire about this posting, email: employment@utah.edu or call 801-581-2300.
Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (OEO/AA)
383 University Street, Level 1 OEO Suite
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
801-581-8365
oeo@utah.edu
Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu
For more information: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/
To inquire about this posting, email: employment@utah.edu or call 801-581-2300.
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
https://safety.utah.edu/safetyreport This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
Posting Specific Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- * What is your highest level of completed education?
- None
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Associate Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
- Doctorate Degree
- * How many years of related work experience do you have?
- Less than 2 years
- 2 years or more, but less than 4 years
- 4 years or more, but less than 6 years
- 6 years or more, but less than 8 years
- 8 years or more, but less than 10 years
- 10 years or more, but less than 12 years
- 12 years or more, but less than 14 years
- 14 years or more
Applicant Documents
Required DocumentsOptional Documents
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Open Date
03/19/2026
Requisition Number
PRN44517B
Job Title
Laboratory Technicians
Working Title
Laboratory Technician I, II
Career Progression Track
S00
Track Level
S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level Support
FLSA Code
Nonexempt
Patient Sensitive Job Code?
Yes
Standard Hours per Week
40
Full Time or Part Time?
Full Time
Shift
Day
Work Schedule Summary
Monday – Friday
VP Area
U of U Health - Academics
Department
00870 - Ophthalmology-Research
Location
Campus
City
Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment
External Posting
Pay Rate Range
$15.00 - $21.00
Close Date
05/19/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Similar jobs
No similar jobs found
© 2026 Qureos. All rights reserved.