Research Professional II, Molecular and Cellular Biology

The newly established Sur Lab at the University of Arizona is seeking a highly motivated Lab Manager with aquaculture experience or zebrafish husbandry experience to play a central role in building and shaping a brand-new zebrafish research facility, starting in Summer 2026.

The Sur Lab studies the function and communication networks of a newly discovered gut cell type called BEST4+ cells, potentially altered in inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, and are absent from mouse models. This is a unique opportunity for an aquatic specialist to help define facility practices, implement systems, and establish standards while working in a collaborative and fast-growing research environment.

The successful candidate will serve as the primary zebrafish-focused technical expert within the lab. This role combines hands-on aquatic facility oversight with active participation in research and general lab management.

Responsibilities will include overseeing our newly renovated 350 sq. ft. aquaculture facility, which includes a three double-sided rack system and a two stand-alone rack quarantine system, one of the first such facilities in Arizona. Responsibilities would encompass breeding and rearing of zebrafish, including genotyping and phenotyping, as well as assisting with experiments investigating the genetic regulation of zebrafish development, particularly the formation of the intestinal and liver cell types.

The Lab Manager is expected to spend 50% towards supporting the research ongoing in the lab and contributing to projects, 30% time and effort towards zebrafish husbandry, and 20% toward lab management.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

Research Support

In addition to aquatic facility oversight, the Lab Manager will contribute directly to the laboratory’s research program by assisting with experimental workflows and technical development in zebrafish biology and molecular genetics.

Research responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with zebrafish experimental procedures, including embryo microinjection, transgenesis workflows, dissections, and transplantation assays.
• Performing molecular and genetic analyses such as DNA extraction, PCR-based genotyping, and mutant screening.
• Supporting imaging-based experiments, including preparation for confocal microscopy and quantitative phenotyping.
• Conducting molecular and cellular assays such as in situ hybridization (including HCR) and immunostaining.
• Assisting in the development, optimization, and documentation of experimental protocols.
• Supporting data organization and maintaining accurate research records.
• Collaborating with students and trainees to facilitate experimental workflows and ensure reproducibility of techniques.

These activities provide opportunities to contribute to ongoing research projects focused on developmental biology, intestinal physiology, and emerging cell types in zebrafish.

Zebrafish Facility & Aquatic Care

• Oversee zebrafish husbandry operations in a newly established zebrafish facility.
• Perform routine animal care and handling across life stages.
• Monitor fish health and report concerns in coordination with veterinary staff and facility personnel.
• Perform tagging, sperm cryopreservation, injections, and assist with stock management and breeding setup.
• Maintaining live small-scale rotifer and/or Artemia cultures and perform one live feeding to zebrafish tanks per day.
• Responsible for all activities required for the proper care and maintenance of the animals, including routine animal husbandry.
• Receive, examine, transfer, identify, and properly house incoming zebrafish shipments according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Help establish and refine best practices, workflows, and organizational systems for the lab’s aquatic operations.
• Contribute to building a sustainable, well-organized zebrafish program as it grows.

Lab Management:

• Coordinate ordering and inventory management.
• Organize laboratory spaces and help maintain operational efficiency.
• Assist with laboratory cleanups and maintain shared equipment areas.
• Help onboard new students and trainees in basic zebrafish handling practice.
• Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols as outlined by the university.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of regulatory standards and compliance requirements for aquatic animal research.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams while also operating independently.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively engage with researchers, staff, and stakeholders.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in Biology, Aquaculture, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Prior experience in aquatic animal husbandry, facility management, and transgenic line creation for zebrafish, or other models.
• Prior experience in a research or technical facility that included leadership responsibilities and required strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Applicants should attach the following materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter — The cover letter should include a brief summary of the applicant’s interests and experience relevant to this position (maximum of 10 lines).