Senior Research Technician

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago's Section of Gastroenterology seeks a Senior Research Technician with a strong background in biochemistry, biology, or microbiology to join our interdisciplinary team. You will prep and analyze gut microbiome samples and assist with metagenomic sequencing and gnotobiotic animal experiments.

Responsibilities include preparing DNA libraries, cell culture, lab management, and cross-team collaboration. A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• 2–5 years of related lab experience.
• Experience with metagenomics or microbiome work is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepares DNA libraries for metagenomic sequencing and coordinates downstream bioinformatic processing.
• Prepares host cells for a variety of cell culture techniques, and aids in in vitro experiments.
• Manages Gnotobiotic mice and experiments.
• Records findings/results.
• Maintains laboratory notebook and assists with record keeping within internal University LIMS.

Skills

Biochemistry

Microbiology

Biology

Cell culture

Metagenomics

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Advanced degree in biochemistry/biology/microbiology

Tools

DNA sequencing

PCR

Immunoblots

Lab management

Job description

Department

BSD MED - Gastroenterology - DeLeon Research Staff

About The Department

The Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at the University of Chicago is consistently ranked among the best specialty nationally by U.S. News and World Report. With nearly 30 specialists on staff, our program plays a leading role in the understanding of digestive diseases and in developing innovative and successful treatments for patients. Since forming the nation’s first full-time department of Gastroenterology in 1927, our physicians have continually improved treatments for digestive tract and related disorders by combining medical research, education, and patient care at the highest level.

Job Summary

The Section of Gastroenterology is looking for a Senior Research Technician with a strong background in biochemistry, biology, or microbiology to join our interdisciplinary team to design and perform research experiments. The DeLeon lab is seeking a highly motivated technician to prep and analyze gut microbiome samples to gain insights into the function of a variety of mixed microbial communities. Our Laboratory’s ultimate goal is to understand and unlock the tremendous promise of the microbiome for treatment of human disease. We primarily study host-microbiome interactions and need an individual with extensive wet-lab experience to assist with a variety of microbiome and cell culture experiments. You will aid in ongoing studies, and assist with metagenomic sequencing and gnotobiotic animal experiments. Additional duties include laboratory management, training technicians, and maintaining cross-team collaborations. Our ideal candidate should be a ‘self-starter,’ have exceptional organizational skills, and stay updated on recent advances in microbiota research.

Responsibilities

• Prepares DNA libraries for metagenomic sequencing and coordinates downstream bioinformatic processing.
• Prepares host cells for a variety of cell culture techniques, and aids in in vitro experiments managed in the lab.
• Manages Gnotobiotic mice and experiments.
• Manages institutional aspects of the DeLeon lab, including supply ordering, freezer maintenance and organization, and interdisciplinary collaborations with other research laboratories.
• Records findings/results.
• Maintains laboratory notebook and assists with record keeping within internal University LIMS.
• Performs basic lab techniques, including the making of bacterial growth medias, buffers, pipetting, immunoblots, PCR, and microscopy, performing experiments for specific projects.
• Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects according to plan.
• Takes responsibility for the following laboratory duties: recognizing abnormal results and varying conditions or procedures to correct problems; setting up and performing experiments. Analyze the meaning, significance, causes, and effects of the subject.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Education

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Education

• Advanced degree in biochemistry, biology, and/or microbiology.

Experience

• Background in in vitro cell culture systems and modelling.
• Animal model experience.
• Familiarity with microbiome wet lab experiments, including anaerobic chamber work, bacterial isolation, and microbiome sample preparation and analysis.
• Understanding of DNA/RNA extraction methodologies and data analysis pipelines.
• Bioinformatic and/or coding experience.

Technical Skills Or Knowledge

• Knowledge in relevant scientific field.
• Knowledge in microbiology.
• Knowledge of research techniques, such as growing microbial cultures, animal experimentation, DNA/RNA/protein extractions, PCR, western blotting, microscopy, use of standard lab equipment including pH meter, scales, and cell culture hoods and practices.

Preferred Competencies

• Analytical skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Organizational skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills.Work independently and as part of a team.
• Adaptable, willing to learn new skills, and take on new responsibilities.
• Effective time-management skills.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

Job Family: Research

Role Impact: Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40

Drug Test Required: No

Health Screen Required: No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required: No

Pay Rate Type: Salary

FLSA Status: Exempt

Pay Range: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible: Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case‑by‑case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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