Lab Research Assistant 2-29148

Rush University Medical Center; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Rush University Medical Center seeks a Lab Research Assistant 2 to perform complex laboratory procedures with limited supervision and support high-quality research outputs. The role includes specimen processing, data documentation, and protocol refinement within the Orthopedic Surgery research unit.

The position emphasizes rigorous laboratory practices, training junior staff, and effective communication to support investigators and study timelines in a healthcare research setting.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent; 2 years laboratory experience.
• Experience: 3 years laboratory experience, with at least 1 year in active research (in lieu of a degree).

Responsibilities

• Perform complex laboratory procedures with limited supervision and follow study protocols.
• Process biological specimens using manual and automated techniques as required.
• Analyze test results and summarize findings for investigators.
• Operate and troubleshoot lab instruments; document performance and issues.
• Train junior staff in lab techniques and safety practices.
• Create data visualizations and figures for reports and manuscripts.
• Conduct literature reviews to inform experimental design.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong analytic skills

Lab techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Master's degree preferred

Tools

REDCap

Excel

GraphPad Prism

LIMS

Job description

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Business Unit: Rush Medical Center
Hospital: Rush University Medical Center
Department: Orthopedic Surgery-Res Adm
Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0)
Shift: Shift 1
Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 4:00:00 PM)
Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).
Pay Range: $21.61 - $30.53 per hour
Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush's anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Job Summary

The Lab Research Assistant 2 performs laboratory procedures with limited supervision and supports complex scientific studies through specimen processing, equipment operation, and data documentation. The Lab Research Assistant 2 applies technical judgment to troubleshoot procedures, interpret results, and assist in protocol refinement. This position contributes to maintaining lab efficiency, training junior staff, and supporting high-quality research outputs.

Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Required Job Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Experience: 2 year of laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment

OR

Experience (in Lieu Of a Degree)

• 3 years of laboratory experience, with at least one (1) year involves direct execution of laboratory tests or support of active research studies

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs
• Advanced knowledge of standard experimental design
• Strong analytic skills
• Proficient knowledge of best practice laboratory practice and principles including their application
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Organizes responsibilities to meet protocol deadlines; adjusts task flow to maintain lab productivity and readiness
• Manages multiple tasks with attention to accuracy and sequencing; prioritizes responsibilities to meet study timelines
• Prior experience contributing to protocol development, scientific writing, or manuscript preparation
• Experience working independently in regulated or quality-controlled laboratory environments
• Strong oral and written communication
• Proficiency using laboratory data systems such as REDCap, Excel, GraphPad Prism, or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry, organization, and basic analysis

Preferred Job Qualifications

• Education: Master's degree in biological or chemical science with applied laboratory coursework
• Experience: 2+ years laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment
• Prior supervisory / mentoring / advising experience

Physical Demands

• Requires effective use of fine motor skills for pipetting, microscopy, and data entry tasks
• Requires good vision and manual dexterity to accurately handle lab instruments, record data, and operate computerized systems
• Frequently stands or walks during labs and may occasionally lift or carry items (e.g., reagent trays, small sample containers) up to 25lbs
• Must work safely in environments containing chemicals, biological samples, or equipment with minimal physical strain

Job Responsibilities

• Perform complex laboratory procedures with limited supervision; follow protocol objectives and adjust technique based on study conditions.
• Process biological specimens such as fluids, tissues, or cell lines using manual and automated techniques according to study-specific requirements.
• Analyze test results, identify patterns or anomalies, and summarize findings for investigators or team leads.
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated and computerized lab instruments; document performance and escalated unresolved issues.
• Follow biosafety standards and chemical hygiene protocols; train junior staff or students on lab techniques, safety practices, and equipment use.
• Record procedures, equipment settings, and results accurately in lab notebooks or databases; share updates during team meetings.
• Recommend adjustments to protocols based on observations; contribute to protocol revisions and testing of updated methods.
• Apply and adapt laboratory techniques using prior knowledge and protocol guidelines; adjust procedures based on sample conditions.
• Document results and propose improvements to increase reliability, accuracy, or efficiency of lab methods.
• Assign tasks to Lab Assistant 1s or trainees as needed; provide hands‑on support and confirm task completion.
• Create data visualizations, tables, and figures to support lab reports, presentations, or scientific manuscripts.
• Conduct literature reviews to inform experimental design or support protocol updates; summarize findings for review by investigators.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support daily research operations.

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.