RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN

The Scharf Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Missouri University of Science and Technology is seeking a highly organized and motivated Laboratory Technician to support daily lab operations and contribute to ongoing Caenorhabditis elegans research. This position plays a key role in maintaining the lab’s long-term C. elegans population systems, which require precise timing, accurate documentation, and consistent care. The technician will maintain an orderly research environment, perform sterile technique for culture transfers and media preparation, manage ordering and inventory, and train and support undergraduate researchers. This role includes working closely with graduate students to support ongoing experiments, troubleshoot procedures, and help organize and analyze experimental data. This role is essential for ensuring smooth laboratory operation and reliable continuity of long-term experiments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Laboratory Operations & Organization
  • Maintain overall lab organization, including cleaning, labeling, storage systems, and workspace upkeep
  • Monitor supply levels; manage ordering of reagents, consumables, and equipment
  • Track shipments, reconcile orders, and maintain purchase and inventory records
  • Ensure proper operation and maintenance scheduling for shared equipment
• Sterilization & Safety
  • Prepare media, buffers, plates, and basic lab solutions
  • Perform routine autoclaving of glassware, waste, and experimental materials
  • Maintain sterilization logs and comply with university safety regulations
  • Assist with biological and chemical safety procedures
• Research Support
  • Assist with setup, monitoring, and maintenance of long-term C. elegans population experiments
  • Follow experimental timelines and document procedures accurately
  • Prepare and maintain cultures, including synchronized populations and routine transfers
  • Assist graduate students with experiments and data analysis as needed
• Undergraduate Researcher Coordination
  • Train undergraduate researchers in basic laboratory techniques and lab safety
  • Oversee undergraduates’ day-to-day activities on ongoing projects
  • Provide support, troubleshooting, and quality control for student experiments
  • Communicate progress and performance to the PI
• General Administrative & Team Support
  • Maintain laboratory records, including ordering spreadsheets and inventory lists
  • Help coordinate lab meetings, data organization, and shared duties
  • Support the PI in implementing new procedures and experiment setup

A high school diploma or an equivalent combination of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field
• Experience with sterile techniques and routine lab procedures
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to follow protocols and maintain accurate records
• Strong communication skills and reliability in supporting time-sensitive experiments
• Experience with C. elegans
• Prior experience maintaining and analyzing long-term C. elegans culture systems
• Experience mentoring or training students
• Experience analyzing population-level experiments
• Familiarity with laboratory ordering and inventory systems
• Experience with autoclaving, media preparation, and basic equipment care

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $16.00 hourly.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS 4
University Title: RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN
To review the University of Missouri’s Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Applications will be accepted until this position is filled.

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.