Lab Administrative Research Technician - Bardwell Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute•Ann Arbor, MI

6d•$20 - $32•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Lab Administrative Research Technician to support the day-to-day operations of the Bardwell Lab. This full-time, in-person role plays a critical function in ensuring smooth laboratory operations, effective coordination with institutional partners, and continuity of research activities. The position serves as a primary administrative liaison between the University of Michigan and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) and supports laboratory personnel across administrative, operational, and compliance-related needs. While the role includes hands-on exposure to laboratory workflows and routine lab activities, the primary emphasis is on lab administration, coordination, and operational support, rather than independent bench research.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required in Molecular Biology, Biology, or a related field; the team is also open to considering candidates with other relevant backgrounds (e.g., finance, operations, administration) who bring strong organizational and coordination skills
Strong attention to detail and accuracy, particularly when managing administrative processes, documentation, and records
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
A collaborative and professional working style, with comfort supporting diverse stakeholders including faculty, researchers, and trainees
A forward-looking mindset with the ability to anticipate needs, identify potential issues, and proactively support lab operations
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a willingness to learn institutional processes and contribute to a team-oriented research environment
Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace.
The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Nice To Haves

One to two years of experience working in a laboratory environment is highly preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Maintain the day-to-day laboratory environment to ensure reagents, consumables, and shared equipment are prepared, stocked, and functioning properly
Prepare and maintain stock reagents, buffers, antibiotics, and plates; deliver special requests to researchers in a timely manner
Perform routine laboratory preparation work and assist researchers as time permits
Operate and maintain shared lab equipment, including running the glass washer, organizing glassware, calibrating pH meters, and maintaining clean and organized workspaces
Monitor laboratory facilities and coordinate maintenance or repair needs for equipment such as dishwashers, cold rooms, warm rooms, and autoclaves
Receive and distribute laboratory deliveries
Maintain and update laboratory standard operating procedure documentation as new protocols are introduced
Train and provide task-based oversight to student assistants in routine laboratory activities, including solution and plate preparation.
Manage ordering and inventory of laboratory supplies, including placing daily orders, tracking deliveries, and notifying lab members upon receipt
Maintain general supply and chemical inventories and conduct required annual Environment Health and Safety (EHS) chemical inventories
Monitor consumable usage (e.g., gloves, ethanol) and ensure timely reordering and pickup
Periodically defrost laboratory freezers and maintain accurate freezer inventories
Establish working relationships with vendor representatives to request quotes and discounts as appropriate
Track consumable spending and provide regular summary reports to the lab head
Review monthly operating charges and approve items for payment
Support laboratory safety compliance by onboarding new lab members with lab and safety orientations and ensuring completion of required EHS training
Maintain accurate training records and confirm ongoing compliance for all lab personnel
Conduct routine lab safety checks and assist with monthly EHS compliance surveys
Serve as liaison during safety inspections and coordinate biological waste pickup with EHS
Manage lab coat collection and laundering logistics
Maintain safety documentation, including emergency contact information and EHS binders
Perform routine safety maintenance tasks such as monthly eyewash flushing and documentation
Serve as a primary administrative liaison between the Bardwell Lab, the University of Michigan, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Schedule lab meetings, data clubs, and other recurring lab activities
Assist with onboarding and offboarding logistics by notifying HR of incoming and departing personnel
Review and submit hourly employee time entries for payroll processing
Assist with employee travel arrangements, lodging, and reimbursements
Support required university and HHMI compliance activities, including computer compliance and equipment inventories
Coordinate equipment servicing and repairs and facilitate communication across institutional partners
Assist the PI and laboratory members with specific administrative or operational requests as priorities permit
Help maintain open communication within the lab and support a collaborative, well-organized research environment.