Research Technician

Job Title: Research Laboratory Technician - Electron Microscopy (Entry to Early Career)

Job Description

This entry-level to early-career research laboratory role offers hands-on training in operating an electron microscope, capturing and organizing scientific imaging data, and supporting a small, mission-driven research team. The position emphasizes reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to learn and work with technical equipment and software over prior microscopy experience. You will spend most of your day capturing images with an electron microscope and contributing directly to research that supports next-generation vaccine development and other impactful scientific initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Operate an electron microscope for extended periods to capture high-quality images and collect scientific data, maintaining focus and accuracy throughout the day.
• Work in a small research lab environment of approximately four team members, collaborating closely and communicating effectively to support ongoing projects.
• Handle very small and delicate samples using tweezers and other precision tools, demonstrating steady hands and strong hand-eye coordination.
• Organize, label, and save imaging and data files accurately to ensure data integrity and ease of retrieval for the research team.
• Follow established laboratory procedures carefully, including basic lab techniques such as pipetting and preparing solutions when needed.
• Assist with basic lab tasks and sample preparation to support experiments and imaging workflows.
• Perform simple data review and checks on collected images and datasets as directed by team members.
• Support other lab projects and priorities as they evolve, demonstrating flexibility and willingness to take on new tasks.
• Participate actively in training on technical equipment and software, applying feedback to improve performance and accuracy.
• Maintain a dependable presence in the lab by consistently adhering to scheduled hours and contributing to a collaborative, high-performing culture.

Essential Skills

• 1+ years of experience working within a laboratory setting, including exposure to microscopes and basic lab techniques such as pipetting and solution preparation (academic experience acceptable and preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed procedures carefully and consistently in a scientific or technical environment.
• Steady hands and strong hand-eye coordination suitable for handling delicate samples and operating precision instruments.
• Comfort with repetitive, detail-oriented tasks while maintaining accuracy and focus over extended periods.
• Dependability and consistent attendance, with a strong sense of responsibility to the research team and projects.
• Ability to work effectively in a small team environment, contributing to a collaborative and supportive culture.
• Comfort learning and using technical equipment and software, including laboratory instruments and data systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Willingness to receive and apply constructive feedback, work well with others, and demonstrate eagerness to learn.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in academic or research laboratory settings, particularly involving microscopy or imaging workflows.
• Interest in mission-driven science focused on next-generation vaccines and research with global health impact.
• Motivation to build skills in sophisticated research environments, including exposure to complex, federally funded programs and collaborations.
• Desire for growth, learning, and professional development through structured training and certification opportunities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-performing culture that values partnership, communication, and shared problem-solving.
• Flexibility to support evolving research priorities, including emerging areas such as cancer vaccine initiatives.

Work Environment

This role is 100% onsite in a high-volume research laboratory setting. You will work Monday through Friday, typically from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with an intensive training period that may range from approximately 6 weeks to 3 months depending on individual learning pace. The lab is small, with close collaboration among roughly four team members, and is equipped with advanced instruments including an electron microscope and standard laboratory tools for sample preparation and data collection. The environment combines the stability and resources of a major academic research infrastructure with the agility and innovation of a mission-focused research center. Work is highly detail-oriented and may involve extended periods at the microscope and computer, organizing data and supporting complex research programs. The culture emphasizes collaboration, clear communication, professional development, and visible contributions to impactful scientific work.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Durham, NC.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.65 - $22.85/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Durham,NC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 19, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.