Lead Lab Research Assistant – Alzheimer's Studies

Rush University Medical Center; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois seeks a Lab Research Assistant 3 to independently perform specialized laboratory procedures and oversee technical workflows supporting high-quality research. The role leads protocol execution, data interpretation, and junior staff supervision to ensure rigorous scientific deliverables.

The successful candidate will contribute to protocol development, manuscript preparation, and data generation while adhering to Rush policies and procedures in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required.
• 3 years of laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment.
• Master’s degree preferred for specialized roles.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform specialized laboratory procedures aligned with research protocols.
• Process, label, and track specimens through complex workflows; troubleshoot quality issues.
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot advanced laboratory instruments; train others.
• Lead refinement and implementation of laboratory protocols; evaluate new methods and document outcomes.
• Record detailed procedures and results in electronic systems or lab notebooks; ensure accuracy.
• Analyze results across time points; interpret findings relating to study aims.
• Supervise Lab Research Assistant 1 and 2; assign tasks and provide guidance.
• Present findings and protocol updates during lab meetings; contribute to workflow improvements.
• Coordinate protocols with external labs and clinical teams for data transfer.
• Oversee laboratory supply inventory and vendor coordination; manage purchasing trends.
• Maintain lab safety; deliver onboarding or refresher safety training.
• Draft or revise methods sections for protocols or manuscripts; prepare visuals.
• Translate literature findings into improved lab practices; discuss updates.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Data analysis

Instrument operation

Regulated environment

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Master’s degree in biological or chemical science (preferred)

Tools

REDCap

Excel

GraphPad Prism

LIMS

Job description

Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois seeks a Lab Research Assistant 3 to independently perform specialized laboratory procedures and oversee technical workflows supporting high-quality research. The role leads protocol execution, data interpretation, and junior staff supervision to ensure rigorous scientific deliverables.

The successful candidate will contribute to protocol development, manuscript preparation, and data generation while adhering to Rush policies and procedures in a