Job Details

Laboratory Aides (Starr Lab)

Position Number: 6855904
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Position Type: Laboratory and Research

Laboratory Aides (Starr Lab)

Job Summary

The Starr lab at the University of Utah studies the mechanisms of evolution at the host-virus interface (http://starr.biochem.utah.edu). Using a combination of computational, genetic, and biochemical approaches, we focus on how mutations in viral proteins and antibodies that bind them affect viral evolution and how the immune system can combat evolving viruses. We are seeking an intern interested in contributing to our collaborative and interdisciplinary research program, with the goal of developing research experience and independence. We expect the position would be part-time (20 hours/week) with a commitment to at least 10 weeks of summer research.

Responsibilities
The responsibilities for the role will depend on the intern's skill level and interests. In general, interns should expect to be responsible for:

Perform and assist in experiments in molecular biology, cloning, flow cytometry, cell culture, protein biochemistry, etc.
Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks
Attend lab meetings, present data, and participate in discussions on projects

Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Laboratory Aide, I: Requires little to no related experience.
Laboratory Aide, II: Requires at least 1 year of related experience.
Laboratory Aide, III: Requires 3+ years of related experience.
Laboratory Aide, IV: Requires 5+ years of related experience.

Preferences
Applicants must demonstrate good organizational and communication skills and must have completed one or more courses in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, virology, immunology, or another related field. Experience in a laboratory setting, whether in the classroom or a research lab, is preferred.

We will consider applicants of various skill levels and backgrounds, and will evaluate applications based on applicants' interest and motivation for the position. Interested applicants must provide:

A 1-2-page resume/CV detailing relevant courses, work experience, research experience, skills, and achievements

A 1-2-page cover letter detailing interest and motivation in our current research; why you believe you are a good fit for the position; training goals and expectations; and planned vacations, if applicable.

Contact information for 1-2 references

Intern pay is $11-13/hr. Applications are due February 1st. Please send application materials to Dr. Tyler Starr (tyler.starr@biochem.utah.edu) or Jamin Willoughby (jamin.willoughby@biochem.utah.edu)

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN16689N
Full Time or Part Time? Part Time
Work Schedule Summary:
Department: 01502 - Department of Biochemistry
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $11-$13
Close Date: 5/13/2026
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/195048