Senior Research Technician

Pre-Doctoral in Economics Program (PREP); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago's Gastroenterology Chang Research Lab seeks a Senior Research Technician with strong biochemistry/analytical chemistry background to design and execute experiments. You will prep samples, run LC/MS, and contribute to metagenomic sequencing and gnotobiotic work, supporting microbiome research and disease insight.

Responsibilities include managing the LC/TQ workflow, data analysis, and collaborative project work with lab colleagues.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• 2–5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Advanced degree in biochemistry and/or analytical chemistry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process samples and run LC/MS for functional analysis.
• Coordinate experiments with staff scientists, postdocs, and graduate students.
• Analyze data and prepare reports from LC/MS runs.
• Prepare DNA libraries for metagenomic sequencing and coordinate downstream processing.
• Maintain laboratory notebook and assist with record keeping in LIMS.
• Perform basic lab techniques including DNA/RNA extractions and PCR.

Skills

LC/MS techniques

DNA/RNA extraction

Bioinformatics

Analytical skills

Time management

Education

Advanced degree in biochemistry/analytical chemistry

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Metagenomic sequencing

LC/TQ instrument experience

Laboratory management

Job description

Department

BSD MED - Gastroenterology - Chang 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, and/or analytical chemistry to join our interdisciplinary team to design and perform research experiments. The Chang lab is seeking a highly motivated laboratory technician to prep samples and run a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer 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 seek to hire an individual who will help us understand and define the functional potential of healthy and diseased microbiomes. You will be responsible for the collection, extraction, preparation, and analysis of samples run through our mass spectrometry pipeline. You will also 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

• Processes samples and runs a Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (Agilent 6400 Series LC/TQ) for a variety of functional analysis.


• Coordinates with staff scientists, postdoctoral scholars, and graduate students to design and implement experiments using LC/TQ technology.


• Analyzes data and prepares reports from samples run on LC/TQ system.


• Prepares DNA libraries for metagenomic sequencing and coordinates downstream bioinformatic processing.


• Records findings/results.


• Maintains laboratory notebook and assists with record keeping within internal University LIMS.


• Performs basic lab techniques, such as 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.

Minimum Qualifications

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.

Certifications

—

Preferred Qualifications

Education

• Advanced degree in biochemistry and/or analytical chemistry.

Experience

• Background in LC/MS techniques, including sample preparation/extraction, running instrument, analyzing data, and managing organized data outputs.


• Background in DNA/RNA extraction methodologies and data analysis pipelines.


• Bioinformatic and/or coding experience.

Technical Skills or Knowledge

• Knowledge in Microbiology.


• Knowledge of research techniques (growing microbial cultures, animal experimentation, DNA/RNA/protein extractions, PCR, western blotting, microscopy, use of standard lab equipment including pH meter, scales, cell culture hoods and practices).

Preferred Competencies

• Knowledge in relevant scientific field.


• Analytical skills.


• Problem-solving skills.


• Attention to detail.


• Organizational skills.


• Verbal and written communication skills.


• Work independently and as part of a team.


• Adaptable and 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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