Research Technologist 1

Northwestern University; Evanston (IL); On-site; USD 37,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwestern University is seeking a Research Technologist to support molecular biology and genomics projects in Dr. Brickner’s lab. The role is full-time, on-site in Evanston, with a 1-year renewable appointment and a salary in the stated hiring range.

The position focuses on biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology techniques, with responsibilities including training students and maintaining lab operations. Collaboration and record-keeping are essential.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent with basic science courses.
• BA/BS in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, or related field.
• Undergraduate research experience or prior lab technician experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support current lab research directions with biochemistry, molecular biology, or cell biology approaches.
• Prepare reagents, maintain equipment, and enforce lab safety.
• Train students and pilot new directions under guidance.
• Maintain detailed records and analyze data; troubleshoot protocols.

Skills

Basic molecular biology

Laboratory techniques

Data analysis (R/Python)

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

BA or BS in biology or related field

Tools

R

Python

Job description

Job Summary

Research Technologist in Dr. Jason Brickner’s molecular biology lab: Genomes are spatially organized within the nucleus. This spatial organization requires physical interactions between chromatin and subnuclear structures and impacts gene expression. We study how the nuclear pore complex interacts with the genome and how this interaction affects transcriptional regulation and histone modifications. We pursue these questions in the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a multi-disciplinary approach involving cell biology, molecular genetics, genomics and biochemistry. We are seeking a highly motivated colleague who works well with others who will contribute to these studies and help maintain the lab.

This will be a 1-year renewable position based upon performance and funding availability. This position is a FULL-TIME position at 40.0 hours week and works on-site. The target hiring range for this position will be between $37,062 - $46,124 per year, which is $17.75 - $22.09 per hour. The salary offered will be determined by the applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Department

WCAS Molecular Biosciences

Salary/Grade

NEX/9

Specific Responsibilities

• Support current research directions in the lab, by conducting experiments using biochemistry, molecular biology or cell biology approaches.

Molecular Biology

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
• Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA

Cell Biology

• Yeast and bacterial transformation and culturing
• Sterile technique

Microscopy

• Confocal microscopy and image analysis

Other (please Specify)

• Solution making
• Lab maintenance
• Chromatography (FPLC)
• Familiarity with R and/or Python for data analysis
• Maintain/organize detailed records of experimental details and data, analyze data, troubleshoot protocols, and recommend alternatives to improve processes, validity, and/or accuracy.
• Support lab maintenance, organization, and operations by preparing key reagents, maintaining equipment, tracking lab supplies and orders, and enforcing lab safety.
• Train students, pilot new directions under guidance, and support collaborations.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required

Preferred Qualifications

• BA or BS in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology or other related biological science discipline. Undergraduate research experience, or prior lab technician experience in these areas.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Basic molecular biology, handling of proteins and nucleic acids, ability to carry out quantitative biochemistry experiments

Benefits

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parentalleave;tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life And Wellness

Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development

Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern’s non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.