Research Technologist II (D.MIthal lab)

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pediatric hospital in Chicago seeks a laboratory technician to support research on mitochondrial diseases. The role involves conducting experiments, maintaining lab records, and collaborating with external groups. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and strong communication skills. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are offered.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Employer-paid group term life and disability insurance

403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Flexible Spending Accounts

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with diverse groups.
• Proficiency with computers and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Support scientific research by performing various laboratory tasks.
• Analyze and troubleshoot protocols and data from experiments.
• Maintain detailed records of results and prepare presentations.

Skills

Communication

Organizational Skills

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago provides superior pediatric care in a setting that offers the latest benefits and innovations in medical technology, research, and family-friendly design. As the largest pediatric provider in the region with a 140-year legacy of excellence, kids and their families are at the center of all we do. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is ranked in all 10 specialties by the U.S. News & World Report.

Location

Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center

Job Description

Primary mitochondrial diseases are caused by a genetic deficiency that impairs mitochondrial metabolism. Symptoms often involve the nervous system, but how abnormal mitochondrial metabolism causes neurologic dysfunction is not fully understood. I both take care of children with mitochondrial disease at Lurie Children’s hospital and do research on these disorders in my lab with the goal of advancing their care. Projects in the lab are focused on elucidating and treating pathogenic mechanisms by leveraging advanced techniques in mitochondrial biology and neuroscience. Main functions will include preparing tissue for histology, mitochondrial metabolism assays, culturing neurons in sterile conditions, delivery of gene-replacement therapies, and managing transgenic mouse colonies (breeding, genotyping). Molecular biology, cell biology, and behavioral analysis are integrated into grant-funded programs. There will be opportunities to present data at local symposiums and have authorship on manuscripts. Past technicians in the lab have successfully attended medical school (MD/DO) or graduate PhD programs. Metabolism-focused work will be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Navdeep Chandel’s lab.

Essential Job Functions

1. Support scientific research, analysis, and experimentation by performing various laboratory tasks, following protocols, designing, setting up, and conducting basic experiments.
2. Analyze and troubleshoot protocols and data obtained from experiments, recommending improvements for validity and accuracy.
3. Maintain detailed records of results, including data collection, extraction, entry, interpretation, and presentation.
4. Prepare charts and graphs for presentations and publications.
5. Perform scientific literature searches to support research activities.
6. Assist with grant applications, manuscripts, and publications.
7. Manage lab supply expenses, verify invoice accuracy, and order laboratory reagents, mice, and supplies.
8. Calibrate and validate laboratory equipment, record data, and report findings to senior staff.
9. Maintain an organized laboratory environment, managing supplies, reagents, and equipment inventory, including placing orders.
10. Perform other related job functions as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Successful completion of a 4-year degree in a scientific major or a related field, or an appropriate combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with diverse groups of people.
• Proficiency with computers, troubleshooting skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team, including experience interacting with external groups.
• Excellent command of English and effective communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, including prioritization, prompt response to requests, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.

Education

Bachelor's Degree (Required)

Pay Range

$40,560.00 - $62,878.40 Salary

At Lurie Children’s, we offer competitive compensation aligned with market rates and internal equity, reflecting individual contributions, experience, and expertise. The pay range indicates the minimum and maximum targets for this position. Ranges are regularly reviewed to stay aligned with market conditions. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, which may include incentives for certain roles, health and retirement benefits, and wellbeing programs. For more details, please contact your recruiter or visit our benefits link.

Benefit Statement

For employees working 20+ hours per week, our benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid group term life and disability insurance
• Employer contribution to Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Time Off (PTO), Holidays, and Parental Leave
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer match
• Voluntary benefits such as supplemental life, critical illness coverage, tuition assistance, student loan support, adoption benefits, backup childcare and eldercare, Employee Assistance Program, and discounts at Lurie Children’s facilities and services.

There’s a Place for You with Us

At Lurie Children’s, we celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive team with varied backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints. We value fairness, differences, and meaningful connections that foster belonging and allyship. We are an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics.

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