Research Jobs at University of Utah with Visa Sponsorship
Research jobs at University of Utah span health sciences, engineering, and social sciences, with positions ranging from postdoctoral fellows to senior research scientists. The university has a dedicated international services office that actively supports visa sponsorship for research hires, making it a realistic option for international candidates pursuing academic research careers.
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Get Access To All JobsJOB TITLE
Research Specialists
WORKING TITLE
Research Specialist - Immunology (Gao Lab)
CAREER PROGRESSION TRACK
P00
TRACK LEVEL
P3 - Career, P2 - Developing, P1 - Entry Level Pro
FLSA CODE
Professional
PATIENT SENSITIVE JOB CODE?
No
STANDARD HOURS PER WEEK
40
FULL TIME OR PART TIME?
Full Time
SHIFT
Day
WORK SCHEDULE SUMMARY
Monday – Friday (hours can vary). Occasional evenings and weekends. 40 hours per week. This is an on-site position at the Emma Eccles Jones Medical Research Building.
VP AREA
U of U Health - Academics
DEPARTMENT
00247 - Pathology
LOCATION
Campus
CITY
Salt Lake City, UT
TYPE OF RECRUITMENT
External Posting
PAY RATE RANGE
27,194 - 70,151
CLOSE DATE
01/22/2027
PRIORITY REVIEW DATE (NOTE - POSTING MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME)
JOB SUMMARY
The Yajing Gao Lab in the Department of Pathology Division of Microbiology and Immunology seeks two motivated and detail-oriented Research Specialists to join our exciting team.
The scientific mission of the Gao Lab is to understand the regulatory mechanism of lipid homeostasis in immune-tissue metabolism in human tissue and organoids, and animal models. Our goal is to demystify inflammation and metabolic diseases. Our lab utilizes various biochemistry, cell biology, immunobiology approaches, and cutting-edge metabolomics, transcriptomics, high-resolution imaging, among other high-throughput techniques.
Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory personnel, the Research Specialists will work collaboratively in a team to provide technical support to daily laboratory operation as well as exploring new projects in the lab. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate interested in gaining hands-on research experience before pursuing graduate, medical, or other health professional training.
The department may choose to hire at job level P1, P2, or P3 based on business need and candidate’s education and experience.
Learn about the great benefits of working for University of Utah at benefits.utah.edu.
Responsibilities
P1 | Research Specialist I (Job Code P56431)
Requires basic skill set and proficiency. Conducts work assignments as directed. Closely supervised and with little latitude for independent judgment.
P2 | Research Specialist II (Job Code P56432)
Requires moderate skill set and proficiency in discipline. Conducts work assignments of increasing complexity, under moderate supervision with some latitude for independent judgment.
P3 | Research Specialist III (Job Code P56433)
Considered highly skilled and proficient in discipline. Conducts complex, important work under minimal supervision and with wide latitude for independent judgment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Performs tests and procedures (biochemistry, molecular biology, cell culture, and/or rodent models) using laboratory equipment. Examples of specific work: cell culture maintenance, generating stable cells lines, primary cell cultures, and organoids; cell biology experiments such as gene transfer, CRISPR editing, immunostaining, cellular phenotyping; molecular cloning; RNA, DNA, and protein extraction and analysis (PCR, RT-PCR, western blot); immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry; transformation and generating DNA plasmids; performing PCR and gel electrophoresis.
- Documents research procedure and results; Makes statistical calculations, basic data analysis and interpretation; Plots and prepares reports summarizing result; Maintains database of experimental results.
- Provides technical assistance in the lab, including assisting other members of the lab.
- May supervise the care of research animals; perform tissue collection from mice and animal colony maintenance (tissue biopsy, colony maintenance, genotyping).
- Confers with PI and senior laboratory personnel regarding the procedures and techniques to be followed in conducting research and recommends modifications as needed.
- Conducts literature reviews to obtain abstracts and information to be utilized in research.
- Assists laboratory operation: catalogs and maintains laboratory inventory, orders laboratory supplies and materials, prepares standard buffers/media and chemicals, manages regular maintenance of lab equipment, assists with training of incoming personnel, and assists with maintenance of lab safety records and standard operation procedures.
This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND LEVEL OF FREQUENCY THAT MAY BE REQUIRED:
Nearly Continuously: Laboratory environment.
Often: Exposure to animals and potential infectious disease, noise, hazards (proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current, exposure to chemicals).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND LEVEL OF FREQUENCY THAT MAY BE REQUIRED:
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing and pipetting), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Research Specialist, I: Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master’s (or equivalency) degree.
Research Specialist, II: Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master’s (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.
Research Specialist, III: Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.
PREFERENCES
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
- General working knowledge of basic molecular biology/cell biology/genetic techniques and principles.
- Good communication skills and ability to work well within teams.
- Understanding of relevant protocols, journal articles, and equipment manuals; knowledge of standard laboratory equipment and supplies.
- Working knowledge and ability with computers (PC and MAC operating systems), and software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe products, etc.).
- Knowledge of chemistry to prepare solutions for lab experiments.
- Ability to follow laboratory safety procedures for handling chemical, biohazard, and medical waste.
- Ability to work on several projects simultaneously and to switch focus as needed.
- Excellent attention to detail; ability to keep accurate and organized lab records.
- Good organization and time management skills. Always punctual.
- Ability to learn new laboratory techniques and new lab equipment as needed.
- General knowledge of university procedures and compliance with environmental health safety and university guidelines.
- Prior laboratory experience through coursework or undergraduate research.
- Strong interest in immunology, physiology, and/or metabolism.
- Willingness to work with transgenic animal (rodent) models.
- Willingness to work occasional overtime in order to meet deadlines related to grant applications and publications.
TYPE
Benefited Staff
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS SUMMARY
This position will begin January 2027.
Please attach to application:
- Cover Letter outlining experiences and interests.
- CV.
- Title and contact information of up to three references.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
JOB TITLE
Research Specialists
WORKING TITLE
Research Specialist - Immunology (Gao Lab)
CAREER PROGRESSION TRACK
P00
TRACK LEVEL
P3 - Career, P2 - Developing, P1 - Entry Level Pro
FLSA CODE
Professional
PATIENT SENSITIVE JOB CODE?
No
STANDARD HOURS PER WEEK
40
FULL TIME OR PART TIME?
Full Time
SHIFT
Day
WORK SCHEDULE SUMMARY
Monday – Friday (hours can vary). Occasional evenings and weekends. 40 hours per week. This is an on-site position at the Emma Eccles Jones Medical Research Building.
VP AREA
U of U Health - Academics
DEPARTMENT
00247 - Pathology
LOCATION
Campus
CITY
Salt Lake City, UT
TYPE OF RECRUITMENT
External Posting
PAY RATE RANGE
27,194 - 70,151
CLOSE DATE
01/22/2027
PRIORITY REVIEW DATE (NOTE - POSTING MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME)
JOB SUMMARY
The Yajing Gao Lab in the Department of Pathology Division of Microbiology and Immunology seeks two motivated and detail-oriented Research Specialists to join our exciting team.
The scientific mission of the Gao Lab is to understand the regulatory mechanism of lipid homeostasis in immune-tissue metabolism in human tissue and organoids, and animal models. Our goal is to demystify inflammation and metabolic diseases. Our lab utilizes various biochemistry, cell biology, immunobiology approaches, and cutting-edge metabolomics, transcriptomics, high-resolution imaging, among other high-throughput techniques.
Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory personnel, the Research Specialists will work collaboratively in a team to provide technical support to daily laboratory operation as well as exploring new projects in the lab. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate interested in gaining hands-on research experience before pursuing graduate, medical, or other health professional training.
The department may choose to hire at job level P1, P2, or P3 based on business need and candidate’s education and experience.
Learn about the great benefits of working for University of Utah at benefits.utah.edu.
Responsibilities
P1 | Research Specialist I (Job Code P56431)
Requires basic skill set and proficiency. Conducts work assignments as directed. Closely supervised and with little latitude for independent judgment.
P2 | Research Specialist II (Job Code P56432)
Requires moderate skill set and proficiency in discipline. Conducts work assignments of increasing complexity, under moderate supervision with some latitude for independent judgment.
P3 | Research Specialist III (Job Code P56433)
Considered highly skilled and proficient in discipline. Conducts complex, important work under minimal supervision and with wide latitude for independent judgment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Performs tests and procedures (biochemistry, molecular biology, cell culture, and/or rodent models) using laboratory equipment. Examples of specific work: cell culture maintenance, generating stable cells lines, primary cell cultures, and organoids; cell biology experiments such as gene transfer, CRISPR editing, immunostaining, cellular phenotyping; molecular cloning; RNA, DNA, and protein extraction and analysis (PCR, RT-PCR, western blot); immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry; transformation and generating DNA plasmids; performing PCR and gel electrophoresis.
- Documents research procedure and results; Makes statistical calculations, basic data analysis and interpretation; Plots and prepares reports summarizing result; Maintains database of experimental results.
- Provides technical assistance in the lab, including assisting other members of the lab.
- May supervise the care of research animals; perform tissue collection from mice and animal colony maintenance (tissue biopsy, colony maintenance, genotyping).
- Confers with PI and senior laboratory personnel regarding the procedures and techniques to be followed in conducting research and recommends modifications as needed.
- Conducts literature reviews to obtain abstracts and information to be utilized in research.
- Assists laboratory operation: catalogs and maintains laboratory inventory, orders laboratory supplies and materials, prepares standard buffers/media and chemicals, manages regular maintenance of lab equipment, assists with training of incoming personnel, and assists with maintenance of lab safety records and standard operation procedures.
This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND LEVEL OF FREQUENCY THAT MAY BE REQUIRED:
Nearly Continuously: Laboratory environment.
Often: Exposure to animals and potential infectious disease, noise, hazards (proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current, exposure to chemicals).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND LEVEL OF FREQUENCY THAT MAY BE REQUIRED:
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing and pipetting), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Research Specialist, I: Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master’s (or equivalency) degree.
Research Specialist, II: Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master’s (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.
Research Specialist, III: Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.
PREFERENCES
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
- General working knowledge of basic molecular biology/cell biology/genetic techniques and principles.
- Good communication skills and ability to work well within teams.
- Understanding of relevant protocols, journal articles, and equipment manuals; knowledge of standard laboratory equipment and supplies.
- Working knowledge and ability with computers (PC and MAC operating systems), and software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe products, etc.).
- Knowledge of chemistry to prepare solutions for lab experiments.
- Ability to follow laboratory safety procedures for handling chemical, biohazard, and medical waste.
- Ability to work on several projects simultaneously and to switch focus as needed.
- Excellent attention to detail; ability to keep accurate and organized lab records.
- Good organization and time management skills. Always punctual.
- Ability to learn new laboratory techniques and new lab equipment as needed.
- General knowledge of university procedures and compliance with environmental health safety and university guidelines.
- Prior laboratory experience through coursework or undergraduate research.
- Strong interest in immunology, physiology, and/or metabolism.
- Willingness to work with transgenic animal (rodent) models.
- Willingness to work occasional overtime in order to meet deadlines related to grant applications and publications.
TYPE
Benefited Staff
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS SUMMARY
This position will begin January 2027.
Please attach to application:
- Cover Letter outlining experiences and interests.
- CV.
- Title and contact information of up to three references.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
Tips for Finding Research Jobs at University of Utah
Align your credentials with Utah's research priorities
University of Utah research roles are concentrated in health sciences, biomedical engineering, and computational fields. Frame your CV around publications, grants, and lab skills that match active research centers like Huntsman Cancer Institute or the Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute.
Target postdoc and research scientist pipelines directly
Many sponsored research positions at Utah originate through principal investigators, not HR job boards. Reach out to faculty whose lab work aligns with yours. A direct PI introduction often precedes the formal job posting and puts your application ahead of the open pool.
Clarify J-1 waiver obligations before accepting any offer
Research roles at universities frequently start on J-1 exchange visitor status. If you've held a J-1 before, confirm whether the two-year home residency requirement applies to you before the offer stage, since it affects whether H-1B sponsorship can begin immediately.
Confirm OPT and CPT authorization timelines with your DSO
If you're transitioning from F-1 status, your Designated School Official must authorize OPT or CPT before you can begin working. Build at least 90 days into your timeline before your intended start date to avoid gaps in work authorization during the hiring process.
Start H-1B cap planning before your OPT window closes
USCIS only accepts H-1B cap registrations once per year, in March, for an October 1 start. If your OPT expires before then, confirm whether Utah will file for a cap-exempt H-1B through a qualifying nonprofit research arrangement or extend your authorized period through other means.
Browse Utah's open research roles on Migrate Mate
Filter by Research roles at University of Utah on Migrate Mate to see which positions are actively open and have a confirmed sponsorship history. This saves time by surfacing relevant roles without manually scanning university job boards for sponsorship eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Utah sponsor H-1B visas for Researchs?
Yes, University of Utah sponsors H-1B visas for research positions. The university's International Faculty and Scholar Services office manages H-1B filings on behalf of hiring departments. Research roles in fields like biomedical science, engineering, and data science are among the most commonly sponsored. Sponsorship is typically initiated after a formal offer is extended and departmental funding is confirmed.
How do I apply for Research jobs at University of Utah?
Applications for research roles go through the University of Utah's official careers portal, but many positions, especially postdoctoral and lab-based research roles, are also filled through direct faculty outreach. Identify PIs whose research aligns with your background, contact them directly, and monitor the careers portal for formal postings. You can also browse open Research positions at University of Utah on Migrate Mate to find roles with confirmed sponsorship history.
Which visa types does University of Utah commonly use for Research roles?
University of Utah sponsors several visa types for research hires, including H-1B, J-1 visa, F-1 OPT, F-1 CPT, TN visa, E-3 visa, and employment-based Green Cards such as EB-2 and EB-3. J-1 visa is common for postdoctoral researchers. H-1B is used for longer-term research scientist and staff positions. TN visa and E-3 visa apply to Canadian, Mexican, and Australian nationals in qualifying research occupations.
What qualifications does University of Utah expect for sponsored Research positions?
Expectations vary by role level, but most research positions requiring sponsorship call for at least a master's degree, with doctoral qualifications expected for postdoctoral and senior research scientist roles. Hands-on lab or computational experience, a peer-reviewed publication record, and familiarity with grant-funded project environments strengthen your candidacy significantly. Research roles tied to clinical or biomedical work may also require specific technical certifications.
How long does the visa sponsorship process take for a University of Utah Research role?
Timeline depends on visa type. H-1B standard processing takes three to five months after filing, with premium processing available for faster adjudication. J-1 sponsorship through the university can move more quickly once DS-2019 documentation is issued. PERM-based Green Card sponsorship for EB-2 or EB-3 can take one to several years depending on your country of birth and current USCIS and DOL processing backlogs. Factor these timelines into your start date negotiations.