Overview
The Laboratory Assistant supports the daily operation of the Cell and Molecular Physiology lab and provides hands-on support for anatomy education, including cadaver preparation, prosection, laboratory and classroom setup, specimen storage, record-keeping, and management of dissection supplies and equipment. The position works closely with faculty, staff, and graduate students in a demanding academic environment and requires professionalism, discretion, and sensitivity when working with human donors and laboratory users. The successful candidate must be able to work independently, follow and communicate detailed instructions delivered by voice, writing, and diagrams in the English language, adapt to changing priorities, and maintain a high level of attention to detail. The position involves extended periods of standing and working in surgical PPE, exposure to chemicals and refrigerated environments, and physically demanding tasks including lifting up to 75 pounds and moving heavy equipment and donor beds. Training will be provided for prosection and specialized laboratory equipment. Above all, the Laboratory Assistant is expected to treat both living and deceased laboratory users with care, dignity, and respect.
Responsibilities
- Maintain and support the anatomy laboratory: Perform day-to-day cleaning, maintenance, and preparation of the laboratory, including the respectful and appropriate preparation of human cadavers for anatomical study. Manage laundry and ensure adequate supplies of gloves, instruments, PPE, and other dissection materials are available for students and staff.
- Prepare teaching spaces and materials: Set up module rooms and instructional materials for neuroanatomy sessions held throughout the building, ensuring rooms are fully prepared and equipped before each session.
- Maintain cadaver records and storage: Assist the Anatomy Lab Director with the proper storage, organization, tracking, and record-keeping of human cadavers and related documentation.
- Support faculty activities: Assist faculty with the preparation and maintenance of prosections and other anatomical specimens used for teaching.
- Maintain focus and professionalism: Work independently with sustained attention to detail, remaining focused on assigned responsibilities and minimizing distractions during work hours.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree in biology, anatomy, health sciences, or a related field preferred.
- Previous experience in an anatomy, biology, medical, cadaver, or laboratory setting preferred.
- Ability to work respectfully and professionally with human cadavers and anatomical specimens.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and ability to follow laboratory safety and sanitation procedures.
- Ability to manage supplies, maintain accurate records, and support laboratory operations.
- Ability to perform hands-on and physically demanding tasks, including cleaning, laundry, specimen preparation, and moving laboratory materials.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with faculty, staff, and students.
- Strong communication, reliability, professionalism, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to remain focused and attentive while performing detailed and routine tasks.
Minimum Salary
USD $24.00/Hr.
Maximum Salary
USD $30.00/Hr.
