Microbiology Lab Prep Attendant (STUDENT/WORK STUDY)

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a current resume and a brief cover letter that contains the following information:

• Availability for the semester for which they are applying
• Contact information of a Biology Department faculty member who is recommending you
• A description of how they meet and/or exceed the requirements of the job

Job Summary The Biology Department at the University of Michigan-Flint is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented student to assist with preparations of materials for microbiology lab courses during the Fall 2026 semester. In this role, you will work collaboratively with laboratory staff while independently performing assigned responsibilities crucial to the efficient operation of our labs.

This position offers a moderately flexible schedule and would require approximately 6 hours per week, with the opportunity to work as much as 10 hours. Your weekly schedule would be determined upon hire in partnership with the Laboratory Supervisor.

Responsibilities*

The laboratory prep attendant is responsible for preparing materials needed for their assigned microbiology lab course(s). This can include:

• Transitioning lab set ups between lab sections
• Running experiments
• Preparing media and other chemical solutions
• Inoculating bacterial cultures
• Aliquoting reagents
• Washing glassware
• Handling biohazardous waste

Prep attendants work with minimal supervision and are responsible for basic laboratory cleanliness and maintenance. Responsibilities also include performing inventory of their assigned lab space and working with the Laboratory Coordinator and Supervisor to ensure materials are ordered and delivered in time for labs.

Required Qualifications*

• Must be a currently enrolled UM-Flint student
• Successful completion of BIO 111 Organismal Biology or higher level biology labs
• Recommendation by a Biology Department faculty member
• A demonstrated ability to apply laboratory safety rules

Desired Qualifications*

• Knowledge of and ability to practice aseptic technique
• Excellent organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage time
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Modes of Work

Onsite

The work requires, or the supervisor approves a fully onsite presence. Onsite is defined as a designated U-M owned or leased work location within or outside of the State of Michigan

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.

Application Deadline

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

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.