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Luciferase Assay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Analyze transgene expression using qRT-PCR, luciferase assays, and Western blot. * Maintain ELN documentation and prepare summary presentations. Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree + 5 years ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

To verify successful expression, the scientist will utilize assays such as Western blot, qRT-PCR, and luciferase reporter assays. Responsibilities: Design and clone expression vectors and IVT donor ...

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Luciferase Assay information

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How much do luciferase assay jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for luciferase assay in the United States is $35.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.88 and $40.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for molecular biologists?

There is steady demand for molecular biologists, especially in research, biotechnology, and healthcare industries. Roles involving assays like luciferase assays often require skills in molecular techniques, data analysis, and laboratory management, making qualified professionals valuable in the field.

What are luciferase assays used for?

Luciferase assays are used to measure gene expression and promoter activity by detecting light produced by the luciferase enzyme. They are commonly employed in molecular biology research, drug screening, and studying cellular responses, often utilizing specialized equipment like luminometers. These assays help quantify biological processes at the molecular level efficiently and accurately.

What are the disadvantages of luciferase assay?

Luciferase assay jobs involve working with sensitive biological materials and require careful handling to avoid contamination. The assays can be costly due to the need for specialized reagents and equipment, and they may have limited dynamic range or sensitivity compared to other methods. Additionally, assay results can be affected by factors such as cell health and experimental conditions, requiring thorough troubleshooting skills.

What is a Luciferase Assay?

A Luciferase Assay is a laboratory technique used to measure the activity of luciferase enzymes, which produce light in the presence of specific substrates. This assay is commonly used in molecular biology to study gene expression, signal transduction, and cellular events by linking luciferase to a promoter or regulatory element of interest. The emitted light can be easily detected and quantified using a luminometer, making this method sensitive and suitable for high-throughput screening. Luciferase assays are widely applied in research for drug discovery, toxicology testing, and monitoring biological processes in live cells.

What is the difference between Luciferase Assay vs Cell Culture Technician?

AspectLuciferase AssayCell Culture Technician
Required CredentialsLaboratory training, scientific backgroundLaboratory training, scientific background
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companiesResearch labs, biotech companies
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, researchBiotech, pharmaceuticals, research
Primary FocusMeasuring gene expression via luminescenceMaintaining cell cultures and sample prep

While both roles operate within research laboratories and require scientific training, Luciferase Assay specialists focus on measuring gene expression using luminescence techniques, whereas Cell Culture Technicians primarily handle cell maintenance and sample preparation. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in biotech and research settings.

What jobs use PCR?

Jobs that use PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) include molecular biologists, laboratory technicians, and research scientists working in genetics, microbiology, and medical diagnostics. These roles often require skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with PCR equipment and protocols.

What are some common challenges when performing luciferase assays, and how can they be overcome?

A frequent challenge in luciferase assay roles is ensuring assay sensitivity and reproducibility, as minor variations in pipetting, cell health, or reagent quality can significantly impact results. To overcome these, it's important to use consistent cell seeding densities, calibrate pipettes regularly, and include proper controls in every experiment. Collaboration with team members in molecular biology or assay development is common, as troubleshooting often requires collective expertise. Additionally, careful planning and meticulous record-keeping help identify and address sources of variability, leading to more reliable data and smoother workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Luciferase Assay Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Luciferase Assay Specialist, you need a solid background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant life sciences degree. Experience with plate readers, liquid handling systems, and data analysis software, as well as familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate assay results, efficient workflows, and clear interpretation of experimental data in research or diagnostic settings.
More about Luciferase Assay jobs
Infographic showing various Luciferase Assay job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 7% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,723 per year, or $35.9 per hour.
Post-Doctoral Associate: GI Division: Song Lab

Post-Doctoral Associate: GI Division: Song Lab

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN

$63K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

About the Job
 

Program/Unit Description:
The Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition is in the Department of Medicine within the Medical School at the University of Minnesota. The Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition provides an array of clinical services, educational programs, and active clinical and basic science research activities. In addition to the faculty who are part of the Division at the University campus, there are also University faculty who participate in GI research and training activities at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Hennepin County Medical Center, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, and Regions Hospital.
The Division plays a leading and integral role in hepatology and liver transplantation, hosting one of the longest standing liver transplant programs in the United States. The Division is home to a nationally-recognized division for ERCP, EUS, and management of complex pancreas/biliary disorders. Historically, the Division has made a number of seminal contributions in the fields of hepatology and nutrition, and generates important knowledge in our understanding of liver metabolism. More recently, the Division has contributed to the understanding of the role of pancreaticobiliary endoscopy in the management of a number of clinical conditions, including malignant hilar biliary obstruction, complications of ERCP, endoscopic therapy of pancreatic diseases, and of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction.
The Division continues to maintain highest ambitions for excellence in all three of its major missions: patient services, teaching, and research.

Responsibilities include participating in the design, implementation and evaluation of collaborative research studies; analyzing and interpreting data; creating publication quality figures summarizing data; assisting with manuscript and grant preparation; maintaining a legible and self-explanatory scientific notebook, and presenting results during lab meetings and at appropriate scientific conferences. Above all, your major duties will be to conduct bench research as deemed necessary and appropriate by Dr. Song and to assist and/or collaborate with other research staff on scientific pursuits of mutual interests.

Research Direction, Working Environment and Benefits
The PIs lab mainly focuses on the basic and translational research of liver cancer and metabolic diseases. In addition to basic research, we have made groundbreaking progress in developing miRNA-based immunotherapeutic approaches for liver cancer and NAFLD/NASH. The purpose of the lab is to educate the next generation of research scientists. In addition to teaching basic experimental techniques, PI is eager to develop the ability of postdoctoral fellows and graduates to write manuscripts, apply for grants, and strongly commit to education.
All the projects that the postdoctoral fellows will focus on are well developed. The key phenotypic experiments have been done. The potential to publish in high tier journals is high.
Minneapolis is a quiet, beautiful and safe place to live. The living cost is low.
The promotion chance for postdoctoral fellows with solid publications is high in the Department of Medicine at the University of Minnesota. The PI is committed to provide as much help and strong recommendation.

Qualifications
 

Required Qualifications: 

  • Ph.D. or MD required
  • Less than three years of post-graduate research experience in the fields of liver cancer, immunology, metabolic diseases, microRNA, and RNA drug delivery
  • At least one first-author publication. 
  • Skills in molecular biology, cellular biology, AI-based bioinformatics, and mouse models required, which includes single-cell RNA sequencing and data analysis, hydrodynamic injection, hepatocyte isolation, DNA and RNA isolation, western blot, northern blot, southern blot, real-time RT-PCR, luciferase assay, florescence microscopy, immunostaining, mouse mating, and small animal surgery. 
  • Strong motivation and fast learning ability are required.

Preferred Qualifications: 
  • Less than three years of post-graduate research experience in the fields of liver cancer, immunology, metabolic diseases, microRNA, and RNA drug delivery
  • At least one first-author publication. 
  • Skills in molecular biology, cellular biology, AI-based bioinformatics, and mouse models required, which includes single-cell RNA sequencing and data analysis, hydrodynamic injection, hepatocyte isolation, DNA and RNA isolation, western blot, northern blot, southern blot, real-time RT-PCR, luciferase assay, florescence microscopy, immunostaining, mouse mating, and small animal surgery. 
  • Strong motivation and fast learning ability are required.
Pay and Benefits
 

Pay Range: $63,000-78,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience; 

The Medical School aligns Postdoctoral compensation with the NRSA Stipend levels, based on years of Postdoctoral experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

  • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
  • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
  • Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • University HSA contributions
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Employee wellbeing program
  • Financial counseling services
  • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
How To Apply
 

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

For those interested, please send a CV and names of three references to Dr. Guisheng Song (gsong@umn.edu)
 

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity
 

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements
 

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota
 

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of Americas Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).