The W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation invites applications for a Research Lab Manager to support a study of Sin Nombre virus infection in wild deer mice. This position will manage daily laboratory operations, train and supervise undergraduate research assistants, and ensure strict compliance with laboratory safety protocols. Position is temporary (up to one year).

• Dissection of wild deer mice in a biosafety cabinet while following strict biosafety protocols to collect tissue samples, record body size data, and isolate gastrointestinal helminths
• White blood cell differentials
• DNA and RNA extraction from wild deer mouse tissues
• Conventional PCR and qPCR
• Long-term sample organization and storage coordinated with the Philip L. Wright Museum curator
• Coordinate undergraduate student use of lab equipment and answer their questions about lab work
• Maintain a clean and organized lab space daily
• Clean, repair, and organize field equipment (Sherman traps) for long-term storage
• Coordinate moving all lab supplies, samples, and equipment from one building to another in Fall 2026

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry or a related field
• Familiarity with viral pathogens of vertebrate mammals, including lab biosafety
• Knowledge of best practices in genetic protocols
• Ability to learn biosafety level 2 and 3 practices
• Skilled in working with, training, and supervising undergraduate research assistants
• Ability to learn and apply new skills appropriate to conduct necessary research with minimal oversight
• Knowledge and experience in a laboratory environment
• Ability to maintain a safe working and learning environment, especially as applies to pathogen biosecurity
• Overall attention to detail and high level of organizational skills are required
• Skilled in sterile technique and contamination-free workflow
• Excellent pipetting technique
• Experience performing DNA and/or RNA extractions
• Ability to work independently and make informed, proactive decisions

Preferred Qualifications

• Two (2) years of experience managing a lab or as an advanced research assistant
• Experience as a supervisor
• Willingness to assist with the daily administration of the laboratory (lab safety, orderliness, cleanliness, supplies, and reporting)
• Demonstrated experience with molecular assays (ELISAS, PCR, qPCR, etc.)
• Strong understanding of molecular biology and immunology fundamentals

Compensation Title: Research Lab Manager

Union: FOCUS-MFPE

Work Schedule: Full-time, 1.0 FTE (40 Hours a week), Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Position is temporary (up to one year).

Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

A complete application includes:

1. Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as “Dear Search Committee” or “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
2. Detailed Resume – listing education and describing work experience
3. Three (3) Professional References – names and contact information

Must be eligible to work in the United States upon hire. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer. UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. UM partners with SkillSurvey for reference checking. Applicants may receive emails from SkillSurvey to submit reference information.

Testing: Individual hiring departments within the UM Affiliation may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM and all affiliated campuses, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Further, based on the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation and accompanying guidance from the USCIS and Dept. of State, the University may not be able to offer H-1B sponsorship. Particularly the University is not able to pay the $100,000 payment accompanying new H-1B visa petitions.