Plant Genomics Lab Technician - DNA & Sequencing

Pre-Doctoral in Economics Program (PREP); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago seeks a Laboratory Technician – Research to support two collaborative research groups in Ecology & Evolution. The role focuses on wet-lab work including DNA extraction, library preparation for Illumina and long-read sequencing, PCR assay development, and tissue culture.

You will help manage reagents, equipment, and lab safety. Experience with plant biology or genomics, and ability to work across two labs, are preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field.
• B.Sc.-level candidates should have at least 2 years of independent wet lab experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform DNA extractions from plant tissue using CTAB-based and kit-based methods.
• Execute high-throughput library preparation workflows for short- and long-read sequencing.
• Design, optimize, and troubleshoot PCR-based assays.
• Maintain lab safety and inventory; procure reagents and manage equipment.
• Coordinate shared equipment use and support two research groups.

Skills

DNA extractions

Molecular biology techniques

PCR-based assays

Tissue culture

Lab operations & inventory

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology or related field

MS or PhD in biology/genetics/plant biology (preferred)

Tools

Oxford Nanopore

PacBio

CTAB-based extraction

Job description

The University of Chicago seeks a Laboratory Technician – Research to support two collaborative research groups in Ecology & Evolution. The role focuses on wet-lab work including DNA extraction, library preparation for Illumina and long-read sequencing, PCR assay development, and tissue culture.

You will help manage reagents, equipment, and lab safety. Experience with plant biology or genomics, and ability to work across two labs, are preferred.