Research Technologist 2, Cardiology

Northwestern University; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 27,400 - 38,531; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation

Tuition benefits

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

Northwestern University in Chicago seeks a research assistant to conduct laboratory experiments in molecular biology, including DNA/RNA analysis and cell culture. The ideal candidate has a bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline and demonstrated laboratory experience.

The position offers a salary range of $19.89 – $27.97 per hour and includes competitive benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and tuition assistance. Join us in a collaborative research environment that fosters professional development.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of a full 4-year degree in a scientific field.
• Demonstrated laboratory experience and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct basic experiments following established protocols.
• Analyze and troubleshoot experimental data.
• Maintain detailed records of results and prepare reports.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Detailed instruction following

Computer skills

Manual dexterity

Education

Bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major

Tools

Flow cytometry

PCR

Microscopy

Job description

Job Summary

Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). May complete mathematical calculations, computer tasks and assist in judging validity of data. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices.

Specific Responsibilities

• Following protocols, designs, sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
• Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy.
• Using a fully functioning level of skill, completes the following activities:

Molecular Biology

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression; Southern, Northern, Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
• Recombinant virus production and purification

Cellular Biology

• Cell culture and cell isolation
• Functional studies
• Transfection

Histology

• Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
• Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy

Immunology

• Flow cytometry
• ELISA, Elispot assay
• Cytokine assay
• Antibody production and purification

Animal

• Husbandry
• Breeding and screening transgenic mice
• Dissections
• Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
• Database management of colony

Administration

• Maintains detailed records of results, including collecting, extracting & entering data.
• Manipulates, interprets &or presents results.
• Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.

Finance

• Tracks & summarizes lab supply expenses.
• Verifies accuracy of invoices.
• Orders & maintains inventory of reagent, mice & lab supplies.
• Supervises
• Trains students.

Minimum Qualifications

• Successful completion of a full 4‑year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.

Minimum Competencies

• Demonstrated laboratory experience;
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols;
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations;
• Attention to detail and accurate record keeping;
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Manual dexterity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two years of practical laboratory (clinical or research) working experience in molecular biology with a focus on nucleic acid research.
• Prior working experience involving small RNA isolation, extraction, library preparation, and sequencing.

Preferred Competencies

• Skill/knowledge in common genomic techniques including high throughput assays such as microarrays, qPCR, and sequencing.
• Action oriented – Willing or likely to take practical action to deal with a problem or situation.
• Coachability – Receptive to feedback, willing to learn, embracing continuous improvement.
• Collaboration – Facilitates open and effective communication, cooperation and teamwork within and outside of one's own team.
• Collegiality – Helpful, respectful, approachable; builds strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
• Initiative – Exhibits energy and desire to achieve; sets ambitious goals and acts decisively; takes action that no one has requested to improve or enhance job results and avoid problems.
• Meets deadlines – Displays consistency and success in adhering to deadlines.
• Multi‑tasking – Demonstrates ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Organization – Plans, organizes and schedules in an efficient, productive manner; anticipates contingencies and pays attention to detail.

Salary

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.89 – 27.97 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

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 parental leave; 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.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. 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.