Job Description Summary & Additional Information

Organization's Summary Statement:

At The University of Maryland School of Public Health (SPH) we promote and protect health for all by advancing interdisciplinary education and experience; conducting innovative and impactful research; supporting growth and well-being of faculty, staff, and students; and engaging meaningfully with diverse communities and strategic partners.

Job Description:

• Receive, process, and archive clinical specimens (e.g., blood, nasal swabs, saliva, aerosol samples) according to established protocols.
• Perform molecular biology and virology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, qPCR/dPCR setup, ELISA preparation, virus titration assays, and related procedures.
• Maintain accurate sample tracking, laboratory notebooks, electronic data records, and quality assurance documentation.
• Assist in troubleshooting equipment, assay performance, and workflow issues under supervision of senior laboratory staff.
• Contribute to a safe, compliant, and well-functioning laboratory by following biosafety procedures, maintaining clean work areas, managing inventory, and assisting with routine equipment maintenance.

Required Application Materials:

•  Resume/CV highlighting relevant laboratory experience
• Short cover letter describing your qualifications, interest, and availability
• List three references familiar with your laboratory skills and experience

Best Consideration Date: 01/26/2026

Posting Close Date: 03/01/2026

Open Until Filled: No

Physical Demands:

• Ability to work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment with clinical samples and chemical reagents.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring manual dexterity and fine motor control.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a clinical laboratory or processing large numbers of human biological sample for research.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or electronic sample-tracking databases.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new laboratory procedures quickly and adapt to changing operational needs.

Additional Information:

• This is a temporary, hourly, full-time or part-time position (~3 months).
• Evening and weekend hours are required to meet study timelines.
• Position is fully in-person and cannot be performed remotely.
• Two part-time or one full-time technician will support novel NIH supported airborne influenza virus transmission research by processing clinical specimens and performing high-complexity molecular and virological assays (e.g., RT-qPCR, digital PCR, ELISA, virus titration).

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelors degree in a biological or chemical science.
• Required Knowledge and Abilities:
  • General knowledge of the principles and practices of natural and/or chemical sciences; of the safe and proper handling and disposal of applicable specimens, materials and equipment.
  • Ability to perform laboratory procedures using applicable equipment and techniques; to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; to use computers and related software applications; to lift, transport and deliver materials and stock laboratory supplies and goods; to wear and work in personal protective equipment.

Department

Worker Sub-Type

Salary Range

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization.  Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice

Resources

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