Research Technical Assistant

Department

BSD MIC - Missiakas Lab

About the Department

The Missiakas Research lab is part of the Department of Microbiology at the University of Chicago (microbiology.uchicago.edu) that investigates the basic principles of microbial interactions with their hosts. Research topics include the study of viral and bacterial pathogens to better understand disease outcomes and improve therapies. The Missiakas Lab also investigates the contribution of the microbiome in maintaining health and preventing disease, and to derive novel therapies. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Job Summary

The Research Technical Assistant provides technical support for scientific research projects. In this role, the individual is responsible for executing experiments, maintaining a detailed daily laboratory notebook, analyzing and summarizing data in written reports, and presenting research findings.

Responsibilities include performing fundamental cell and molecular biology techniques, such as culturing bacterial and mammalian cells, cloning, and conducting genetic manipulations. Additional duties involve microscopy, biochemical assays, and protein purification.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic cell and molecular biology experiments including growing bacterial and mammalian cultures, cloning, as well as performing genetic manipulations, microscopy, biochemistry, and purification of proteins. 

• Collaborate and communicate with other laboratory members.

• Write concise research notes and reports.

• This job provides technical and administrative support in a laboratory environment performing basic laboratory techniques, research and analysis under direction.

• Provides routine or standardized laboratory duties by collecting data in support of research projects under direct supervision.

• Collects and enters data. Assists in analysis of data and with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.

• Complies with institution, state and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

Work Experience:

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

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or studying toward getting a bachelor’s degree.

Experience:

• Basic knowledge in molecular biology, microbiology.

​Preferred Competencies

• Analytical skills.

Working Conditions

• Wet and Laboratory Environment.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

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

Hourly

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FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

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Pay Range

$19.23 - $26.44

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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