The newly established Comparative and Translational Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory in the Department of Veterinary Clinical and Life Sciences at Utah State University, led by Dr. Stephanie Martinez, is seeking a meticulous, reliable, and collaborative Laboratory Technician III to support a broad range of translational research activities. The technician will play a key role in operating and maintaining the laboratory’s liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system, performing in vitro drug metabolism assays and molecular biology techniques, managing laboratory operations, and occasionally supporting animal-based sample collection.

This position requires exceptional attention to detail, integrity, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with sound judgment about when to troubleshoot independently and when to seek guidance.

The ideal candidate has a background in analytical chemistry and molecular biology and values variety, precision, and teamwork while contributing to research that improves the safety and efficacy of therapeutics across veterinary species.

This is a 0.75 FTE benefited position, with the possibility of increasing to 1.0 FTE in the future if additional funding is secured.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. U.S. Work Authorization is required for the duration of employment. Review of applications will begin February 9, 2026 and the position will remain open until filled. 

• Perform precision sample preparation and operate, maintain, and document analytical (LC-MS/MS) workflows for the quantification of drugs and metabolites in biological matrices using validated bioanalytical methods, and assist with method development and validation activities as directed.
• Conduct molecular biology, biochemical, and in vitro drug metabolism assays, including DNA/RNA extractions, PCR-based techniques, immunoblotting, cell culture, microsome preparation and incubations, and plate-based assays.
• Occasionally support research activities at on- or off-campus study sites, including receiving, transporting, processing, and documenting biological samples in accordance with SOPs and biosafety requirements.
• Mange day-to-day laboratory operations, including inventory tracking and ordering, equipment maintenance, development and adherence to SOPs and safety protocols, and maintaining a clean, organized, and shared laboratory environment.
• Train and support collaborating faculty, graduate students, veterinary students, and undergraduate researchers in laboratory safety, equipment use, and standard techniques.
• Record, organize, and assist with analysis of experimental data, and support preparation of figures, presentations, scientific reports, and manuscripts as needed.
• Attend lab meetings and contribute to discussions, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of laboratory workflows.
• Perform additional laboratory, research, or administrative duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in a science-related field and two years of related laboratory technician experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that includes at least one year of laboratory technician experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working as a lab/research technician at Utah State University.
• Experience with chromatography and/or mass spectrometry workflows.
• Experience with molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell culture.
• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, toxicology, food science, biology, or a related field, with at least two years of laboratory technician experience.
• Experience contributing to protocol development, scientific reports, figures, or manuscripts.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and written instructions, including the ability to execute complex laboratory protocols as written.
• Exceptional attention to detail and precision in laboratory work.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory safety and biosafety practices applicable to BSL-2 environments.
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and accurate digital records.
• Ability to work effectively in a shared laboratory environment with multiple research groups.
• Professionalism, reliability, integrity, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Ability to work independently once trained, with sound judgement regarding when to troubleshoot independently and when to seek guidance or approval.
• Comfort and willingness to handle biological samples, including samples from veterinary species.
• Proficient computer skills, including use of spreadsheet and word-processing programs.

Job offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Along with the online application, please attach:

• Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
• Cover letter describing interest in the position and relevant experience, to be uploaded under "Other Documents 1-10"
• Contact Information for three professional references to be entered into the Candidate Profile

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

This position requires moderate physical activity, including the handling of average weight objects up to 25 pounds and/or standing, sitting, or walking more than four hours per day. Employees are exposed to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises. The work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment. This position requires repetitive hand motions and reaching overhead.

The Lab/Research Technician III will be joining the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) during an exciting period of growth and investment in veterinary education and research. In 2022, the State of Utah approved the creation of a full four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at USU, and in fall 2025 the CVM admitted its inaugural class following approval by its accrediting agency, the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education. As the College expands, it is making an investment in research programs, laboratory infrastructure, and shared scientific resources that support basic, translational, and clinical research.

In summer 2026, the CVM will move into a newly constructed, state-of-the-art Veterinary Medicine Education Building that includes new research laboratories and shared core facilities designed to support collaborative, interdisciplinary research.

The CVM is committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive working environment and to advancing veterinary medicine through innovative research that improves animal health across species.

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by recent Mountain West regular-season and tournament championships in women’s volleyball, three consecutive Mountain West tournament titles in women’s soccer conference championships, and a first-ever conference championship for gymnastics, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. 

The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

*updated 12/2025

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.

In all circumstances, Utah State University follows state and federal laws related to sex-segregated spaces.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact:

U.S. Department of Education

Denver Regional Office

303-844-5695| OCR.Denver@ed.gov

U.S. Department of Education

Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

800-421-3481 |  OCR@ed.gov

*updated 10/2025