Research Technologist 2 - Vila Ellis Lab

Northwestern University; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 27,400 - 34,247; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation and holidays

Tuition benefits

Job summary

Northwestern University in Chicago invites applications for a laboratory research assistant role in the MED-Cell Developmental Biology department. The position focuses on experimental work across multiple stages of projects, following Good Laboratory Practices and established protocols.

The role requires a 4-year degree in a scientific field, strong record-keeping, and the ability to work both independently and with a team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or higher in a scientific major or equivalent experience.
• Strong ability to follow detailed protocols and keep accurate records.
• Experience with basic computer tools and data analysis.
• Excellent manual dexterity and ability to work independently or in a team.

Responsibilities

• Set up and conduct basic experiments following established protocols.
• Analyze data and troubleshoot to improve processes.
• Maintain detailed records and prepare charts for publications.
• Train students and assist with grant applications and manuscripts.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Detail oriented

Teamwork

Independent work

Computer skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a scientific major

Tools

PCR

Flow cytometry

Cell culture

Western blotting

Job description

Department: MED-Cell DevelopmentalBiology

Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Target hiring range: $19.89-$24.86 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.

Job Summary

Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in the 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.

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 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, 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 which may include collecting, extracting & entering data; manipulates, interprets & 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 reagents, mice & lab supplies.
• Supervises: Trains students.
• Miscellaneous: Performs other duties as assigned.

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 field; OR an 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.

Benefits

• 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.
• Wellness programs.
• Flexible work arrangements where possible.
• Support for child care and affordable senior/adult care.

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.