Lab/Research Technician III

Overview

The newly established Comparative and Translational Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory in the Department of Veterinary Clinical and Life Sciences at Utah State University, led by Dr. Stephanie Martinez, is seeking a meticulous, reliable, and collaborative Laboratory Technician III to support a broad range of translational research activities. The technician will play a key role in operating and maintaining the laboratory’s liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system, performing in vitro drug metabolism assays and molecular biology techniques, managing laboratory operations, and occasionally supporting animal-based sample collection.

This position requires exceptional attention to detail, integrity, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with sound judgment about when to troubleshoot independently and when to seek guidance.

 

The ideal candidate has a background in analytical chemistry and molecular biology and values variety, precision, and teamwork while contributing to research that improves the safety and efficacy of therapeutics across veterinary species.

This is a 0.75 FTE benefited position, with the possibility of increasing to 1.0 FTE in the future if additional funding is secured.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. U.S. Work Authorization is required for the duration of employment. Review of applications will begin February 9, 2026 and the position will remain open until filled. 

Responsibilities

• Perform precision sample preparation and operate, maintain, and document analytical (LC-MS/MS) workflows for the quantification of drugs and metabolites in biological matrices using validated bioanalytical methods, and assist with method development and validation activities as directed.
• Conduct molecular biology, biochemical, and in vitro drug metabolism assays, including DNA/RNA extractions, PCR-based techniques, immunoblotting, cell culture, microsome preparation and incubations, and plate-based assays.
• Occasionally support research activities at on- or off-campus study sites, including receiving, transporting, processing, and documenting biological samples in accordance with SOPs and biosafety requirements.
• Mange day-to-day laboratory operations, including inventory tracking and ordering, equipment maintenance, development and adherence to SOPs and safety protocols, and maintaining a clean, organized, and shared laboratory environment.
• Train and support collaborating faculty, graduate students, veterinary students, and undergraduate researchers in laboratory safety, equipment use, and standard techniques.
• Record, organize, and assist with analysis of experimental data, and support preparation of figures, presentations, scientific reports, and manuscripts as needed.
• Attend lab meetings and contribute to discussions, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of laboratory workflows.
• Perform additional laboratory, research, or administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in a science-related field and two years of related laboratory technician experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that includes at least one year of laboratory technician experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working as a lab/research technician at Utah State University.
• Experience with chromatography and/or mass spectrometry workflows.
• Experience with molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell culture.
• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, toxicology, food science, biology, or a related field, with at least two years of laboratory technician experience.
• Experience contributing to protocol development, scientific reports, figures, or manuscripts.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and written instructions, including the ability to execute complex laboratory protocols as written.
• Exceptional attention to detail and precision in laboratory work.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory safety and biosafety practices applicable to BSL-2 environments.
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and accurate digital records.
• Ability to work effectively in a shared laboratory environment with multiple research groups.
• Professionalism, reliability, integrity, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Ability to work independently once trained, with sound judgement regarding when to troubleshoot independently and when to seek guidance or