Lab Research Analyst I

Be You.

The Zhaohui Wang Lab in the Department of Pathology at Duke University is seeking a highly motivated, organized, and proactive Laboratory Analyst I to join our growing research team. Our laboratory develops next-generation human disease models and therapeutic discovery platforms by integrating stem cell biology, patient-derived organoids, organ-on-chip technologies, high-content imaging, multi-omics, and artificial intelligence. Initial research programs focus on brain tumors, prostate cancer, and breast cancer.

This position supports both research and laboratory-operations. The successful candidate will conduct hands-on research while helping the Principal Investigator establish and maintain an organized, efficient, safe, and reproducible laboratory environment. As an early member of the lab, this individual will play an important role in building the lab's organoid biobank, research workflows, protocol/SOP system, inventories, and day-to-day operations.

Daily, just some of the activities you will engage in include:

Perform hands-on research using mammalian cell culture and three-dimensional organoid models; assist with the establishment, expansion, cryopreservation, and characterization of patient-derived tumor organoids and other human disease models.

Conduct and support molecular and cellular biology experiments, drug-treatment and dose-response studies, fluorescence/high-content imaging, and related assays; collect, analyze, document, and organize experimental data.

Prepare culture media, reagents, solutions, and experimental materials; set up and operate standard laboratory equipment and assist with the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new research procedures and techniques.

Develop, organize, maintain, and periodically update laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Help establish a centralized and searchable system for protocols, reagent information, troubleshooting notes, and shared laboratory resources.

Coordinate day-to-day laboratory organization, including ordering and inventory of reagents and supplies; organization and tracking of cell lines, organoid models, cryopreserved stocks, samples, and associated records; freezer and storage organization; and routine equipment maintenance and service coordination.

Assist with laboratory safety and compliance documentation, onboarding and training of new laboratory members, shared equipment scheduling, and implementation of good data-management and record-keeping practices. Work collaboratively with the PI and laboratory members to continuously improve research workflows, efficiency, reproducibility, and organization.

Minimum Requirements:

Education/Training

Work requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field.

Experience

Work requires two years of research experience. A related master's degree may offset required years of experience on a 1:1 basis, e.g., a two year master's degree in lieu of two years of experience.

OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture; experience with stem cells, organoids, or cancer models is a plus but not required
• Meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a high level of reliability and ownership
• Ability to organize laboratory protocols/SOPs, inventories, samples, and research records in a clear and reproducible manner
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication, documentation, and teamwork skills
• Experience with molecular/cellular biology, fluorescence microscopy, drug screening, flow cytometry, or related laboratory techniques is desirable
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, coordinate routine laboratory operations, and maintain a safe and well-organized research environment
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, take initiative, and learn and adapt to new technologies

The ideal candidate enjoys both doing science and organizing science. This position is especially well suited for someone who wants to contribute directly to research while taking an active role in building the operational foundation of a new laboratory. Opportunities for increasing research and laboratory-coordination responsibilities will be available as the lab grows.

Choose Duke.

Join our award-winning team and be part of an inclusive culture that values excellence, innovation, and discovery. Duke University is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide and is renowned for its cutting-edge research across disciplines. Beyond the engaging work, you'll also benefit from Duke's competitive benefits package, including health insurance plans, generous paid time off, retirement programs with employer contributions, tuition assistance for employees and their children, and more.

Screening of Applications: Screening will continue until the position is filled.