Laboratory Research Technician - Military veterans preferred

Laboratory Research Technician

The Department of Periodontics and Preventive Dentistry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine is home to world-class research in oral immunology, microbiome science, and clinical periodontology. Dr. Martinna Bertolini’s research group focuses on oral epithelial biology, host-pathogen interactions, and implant-related mucosal diseases, with an emphasis on Candida albicans pathogenesis and single-cell RNA sequencing. The lab is located at BST, alongside Dr. Gaffen's lab and offers a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment for research training, with opportunities to contribute to impactful projects involving translational models, molecular techniques, and clinical applications.

Benefits include: *11 Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days * Additional Paid Time Off (Winter Recess) during the period between Christmas and the New Year * Paid Parental Leave * Education benefits for eligible employees, their dependents and spouse/domestic partner * Above-average Employer Contribution towards Medical, Prescription Drug, Vision, Life,
STD, and LTD Insurance plans * A robust retirement savings plan option. Including 100% match on employee contributions of 3-8% (150% after vesting) and enhanced match for those nearing retirement.

Job Summary

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

Essential Functions

• Perform laboratory techniques such as RT-qPCR, DNA and RNA extraction, flow cytometry, cryosection and immunofluorescence under supervision.
• Assist with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) sample preparation and analysis using RStudio/Seurat, including data preprocessing, clustering, and pathway enrichment.
• Contribute to general lab maintenance, inventory, and sample organization.
• Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records, and assist with protocol development and figure generation for presentations and manuscripts.
• Support data analysis tasks related to oral mucosal immunology, fungal pathogenesis, and host-microbe interactions.

Physical Effort

• Light to medium physical effort required.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based analysis.
• May require occasional standing for bench work and lifting light laboratory materials or equipment (up to 25 lbs).

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Laboratory Research Technician I

Job Family: Research

Job Sub Family: Laboratory

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: No experience required

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents: Not Applicable




Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

PI273306352