Laboratory Research Technician

Research under the direction of Dr. Xiangyu Zhang focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying cardiometabolic diseases, including atherosclerosis. The lab has a particular interest in macrophage and adipocyte metabolism, autophagy/lysosome biology, mTOR signaling, and related inflammatory and metabolic pathways. The research uses a combination of mouse models, primary cells/cell lines, human monocytes/macrophages, standard molecular and cellular biology approaches, and clinical/translational studies.

Main Duties:

1. Assist with day-to-day laboratory experiments and general research activities in the lab.
2. Help with mouse colony management, including coordinating with the animal facility, monitoring breeding, weaning, genotyping, and maintaining accurate colony records.
3. Assist with animal-related experimental procedures, sample collection, tissue processing, and preparation of materials, in accordance with approved protocols and institutional guidelines.
4. Perform basic molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as PCR/genotyping, tissue processing, immunostaining, RNA/protein extraction, and other standard lab assays as needed.
5. Maintain organized laboratory records, assist with ordering and inventory, prepare reagents, and help with general lab organization and compliance.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Experience in basic biomedical laboratory work, including molecular and cellular biology techniques such as PCR/genotyping, DNA/RNA/protein extraction, tissue processing, and other standard lab assays as needed.

A very important component of the position will also be working with mice and helping maintain the mouse colony, including breeding, weaning, genotyping, accurate record keeping, coordination with the animal facility, animal handling, sample collection, and tissue harvesting in accordance with approved protocols and institutional guidelines.

Must be able to move between university labs and offices. May require long periods of standing, bending, walking, kneeling. Movement of lab animals and equipment as needed.