University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Microbiology and Synthetic Biology Technologist (Temporary)
Job Description

Job Summary:

Approximately 25% of energy use in the U.S. comes from burning natural gas, the majority of which is produced by methanoarchaea. Our goal is to engineer improved microbial strains for industrial, agricultural and environmental sustainability uses. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the art facilities in the George W. Beadle Center for Genetics Research and acquire experience in synthetic biology, redox biochemistry, anaerobic microbiology, and bioinformatics analyses.

As a Temporary Microbiology and Synthetic Biology Technologist, you will:

  • Design experiments with supervision, consult with the PI on experimental design, carry out experiments, make observations, record and analyze data.
  • Summarize and report findings in presentations and project reports for the PI.
  • Train undergraduate and rotating graduate students on lab procedures.
  • Ensure lab equipment is maintained.
  • Maintain university and lab policies.
  • Participate in outreach activities.

Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an M/P Temporary Worker. 

About Us:

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace, it's a place to build your career and make a real impact in Nebraska.

Temporary employees may be appointed for a period of up to two years. Those appointed for more than six months are eligible for benefits from the beginning of the appointment, provided the position is half-time (.50 FTE) or greater. Those appointed for six months or less are not eligible for benefits.

Benefits for eligible temporary employees include:

  • Paid time off including vacation and sick leave
  • Comprehensive insurance options including health, dental, vision, and life insurance

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry or a related field plus two years' research experience in basic molecular biology (DNA/RNA analysis, PCR, DNA cloning, gel electrophoresis), biochemistry (protein purification, spectroscopy, enzyme assays, HPLC).
  • Additional years of completed relevant education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
  • Willingness to learn new techniques. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • MS or PhD in relevant field preferred but not required.

Compliance Requirements:

If selected for this position and a verbal offer is accepted, the final written offer will be contingent upon the successful completion of the following required pre-employment check(s): 

  • Criminal history background check 

 

Information at a Glance
Req Id:  1776
Campus Name:  NU Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources (IANR)
Org Unit:  Biochemistry IANR
Job Location:  Lincoln, NE 68588
Application Review Date:  12/9/25
Open Until Filled:  Yes
Advertised Salary:  $48,000/yr minimum
Job Type:  Temporary
Worksite Eligibility: 
Benefits Eligible: 
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact:  Niveen Dineh, ndineh2@nebraska.edu
Special Instructions to Applicant:  Click on "Apply Now". Create or login to account. If current employee, click on Employee login.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.

 

Posting Start Date:  11/19/25