Work under the direction of an investigator in cardiovascular research to achieve the goals of a sponsored project in a laboratory setting.  The overall goal of the project is to develop new treatments for patients with heart muscle disorders (primarily hypertrophic, arrhythmogenic, and other types of inherited cardiomyopathy). These disorders are a cause of heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden death in both children and adults. The lab uses a range of model systems to better understand these conditions and to develop and test treatments. In particular, we use human cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). We engineer these cell lines with CRISPR technologies and are testing gene therapy and other approaches. These projects involve a significant amount of molecular biology, cloning, cell culture, and microscopy. This position will be responsible for 1) performing molecular biology techniques, including cloning, biochemical assays, PCR, RNA/DNA extractions, etc., 2) performing cardiomyocyte cell culture techniques, including re-plating cardiomyocytes onto engineered substrates for subsequent live cell microscopy, 3) performing microscopic analyses both for live cardiomyocyte tissues and for fixed immunofluorescence quantifications. The position will include some back-up responsibilities for other roles in the lab, mouse colony handling and regular iPSC culture.

• Perform molecular biology assays, including DNA extraction, RNA extraction, genotyping, PCR, gel electrophoresis, biochemical assays, recombinant DNA cloning, and qRT-PCR.  
• Generate cardiomyocyte tissues and perform microscopy on these cardiac tissues, these experiments will include culture of iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, delivery of viral vectors and treatments, and fabrication of engineered substrates for tissues. 
• Perform live cell microscopy of human cardiac tissues, immunostaining and imaging of fixed cardiac tissues, subsequent image analysis and quantification using standardized pipelines developed in the lab.
• Routine laboratory maintenance including ordering and restocking, biohazard waste autoclaving and disposal, and dishwashing. 
• Back-up other positions in the lab, including routine iPSC culture and mouse colony maintenance.
• Regularly communicate and coordinate with other team members to perform experiments in mouse models. Participate in weekly lab meetings.

The applicant should have a minimum of a B.S. degree in a biological or related field.  At least 1 year of prior laboratory experience is required.

Prior experience with basic molecular biology techniques, including PCR and genotyping techniques, is required. Ability to perform precise fine motor manipulations of engineered substrates is required (although no specific experience with these fabrications is required as training in the techniques will be provided). Other requirements include excellent organizational skills, perseverance, the ability to keep detailed notes, meticulous attention to details, excellent verbal and written English language skills, and an eagerness to work as an integrated team player which may include teaching rotating students and fellows. The applicant must demonstrate strong motivation and work ethic to master new skills. A minimum 2-year commitment is also requested.  

Both a CV and cover letter including the candidates background and goals in taking this position is encouraged with the application. Cell culture and/or microscopy experience are desired but not mandatory (training in all of the above techniques will be given).

The work schedule will be standard business hours M-F. Flexible hours for covering on 1-2 half weekend days per month if needed for cell culture and experimental protocols. 

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings.  Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

About University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.

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