Upkara, Inc. Laboratory Technician Ann Arbor, MI · Full time

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Job Description: Laboratory Technician

Upkara has developed a novel biopreservation technology aiming to eliminate cold storage requirements for biological reagents and pharmaceuticals. In addition to having innumerous applications in the biological reagents, biobanking, and human health markets, it will also enable the delivery of life-saving medicines to regions lacking the infrastructure required for medical storage.  If you are looking to join a technology company with an exciting commercial future and social impact, consider joining our team!  As an Upkara laboratory technician, you will have a vital role in supporting our continued development and commercialization of the technology.  

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Manufacturing and quality checking products. 
• Understanding and assisting in process and product development experiments.
• Running established analytical and molecular biology techniques.
• Understanding and following proper laboratory safety protocols for handling chemicals and biological fluids, including wearing proper protective equipment.
• Performing routine laboratory maintenance activities.
• Documenting all experiments appropriately.
• Performing basic analysis on data generated from experiments.
• Identifying and communicating anomalies in data and deviations in standard procedures in a timely manner.
• Presenting outcomes of experiments and experimental plans to the group on a weekly basis.
• Performing other routine laboratory and administrative tasks as required.

Requirements for this position include:

• A BA, BS, or MS in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, chemistry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Ability to use an analytical balance, pH meter, centrifuge, plate reader, and volumetric pipettes.
• Skilled in laboratory reagent and buffer preparation.
• >1 year previous work experience.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Experience with data analysis packages such as EXCEL, PRISM, Gen5 or Softmax Pro.

The following experience is preferred:

• Experience with cell-based assays, ELISA, spectrophotometric methods, electrophoresis, fluorescence microscopy, PCR, or TGA.
• Experience working in a BSL2 laboratory.
• Experience working in a GMP or GLP laboratory. 

Compensation: The annual salary range for this position is $50,000 to $60,000. The actual compensation may vary based on work experience, education and skill level. 

Benefits: Include Medical, Dental, Vision, Short and Long-Term Disability and AD&D, 401(k) with company match.

Status: Full-time

Classification: Exempt

Location: Position is located in Ann Arbor, MI.  

Travel: None 

EEO & Employment Eligibility:

Upkara is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status.  Upkara also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA.  

As part of our commitment to the health and safety of our employees, customers and the communities in which we operate, this role requires full vaccination for COVID-19 prior to beginning work.