Job Summary
Laboratory assistants provide support to the Natural Sciences teaching operation under the guidance of the physical sciences and biology lab managers and lab supervisor. The duties of laboratory assistants may vary according to the lab manager but generally will include the following:
- Meet with the laboratory manager weekly to discuss immediate and future needs of the lab courses.
- Prepare chemical solutions, media, and bacteria cultures.
- Locate equipment and supplies needed for lab and confirm that they are correct and in operational order.
- Set up equipment, supplies, glassware, and chemical reagents before the start of lab according to the lab course prep sheets provided by the instructor.
- Handle insects used for instructional purposes (Biology only).
- Make sure lab has housekeeping supplies (e.g. hand soap, paper towel, trash bags, disinfectant, distilled water, gloves, soap for cleaning glassware, waste bottles, etc.).
- Monitor, collect, and process all chemical and biohazardous waste generated during lab classes.
- Assistants will be expected to monitor prep room/dispensary activities such as handling walk-up requests, routine matters, checking supplies out and in, and keeping the area neat and orderly.
- Wash and put away glassware, clean lab, and maintain equipment and chemical supply inventories.
Required Qualifications*
Applicant must be a current undergraduate or graduate student with a study area in one of the Natural Sciences disciplines.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.
