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Biochemistry Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Moffitt

EHS Safety Specialist

Chicago, IL

... health, biochemistry, industrial hygiene, occupational safety, or a closely related degree ... * Assist in annual reviews of EHS policies and SOPs, including the Biosafety Program and Lab ...

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Biochemistry Lab Assistant information

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How much do biochemistry lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for biochemistry lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by biochemistry lab assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Biochemistry Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, maintaining accurate records, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members. Regular training on lab procedures and equipment, as well as proactive time management, can help ensure smooth workflow and successful experiment outcomes.

What is the difference between Biochemistry Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiochemistry Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, some certificationsAssociate degree or relevant certification, sometimes higher
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, educational institutions, biotech companiesMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, biotech firms, research institutionsHospitals, clinical labs, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in biochemistry labsMore technical, clinical focus

In summary, a Biochemistry Lab Assistant typically works in research or educational settings with a focus on supporting experiments and lab tasks, while a Laboratory Technician often works in clinical or industrial labs with a focus on testing and analysis. Both roles require relevant certifications and have overlapping work environments, but they serve different industry needs.

What are the typical duties of a biochemistry lab assistant?

A Biochemistry Lab Assistant supports scientists by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, and analyzing samples. They are responsible for maintaining a clean and organized lab environment, recording data accurately, and following safety protocols. Assistants may also help with inventory management and the disposal of hazardous materials. Their work is crucial for ensuring that experiments run smoothly and results are reliable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biochemistry lab assistant?

To thrive as a Biochemistry Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of biochemistry principles, laboratory safety protocols, and typically at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, techniques like PCR and spectrophotometry, and knowledge of data analysis software such as Excel or specialized lab management systems is important. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and smooth teamwork. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining reliable research results and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What degree do you need for a biochemistry lab assistant?

A biochemistry lab assistant typically needs at least an associate's degree in biochemistry, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree, especially for more advanced or specialized roles, along with laboratory skills and familiarity with scientific equipment.
What are popular job titles related to Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biochemistry Lab Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,383 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Senior Research Associate - Sumitomo Biorational Company LLC

Sumitomo Chemical Group Companies of America

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$73K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Us:

Sumitomo Biorational Company is a worldwide leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products for the agriculture, public health, and forestry markets. We have more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market, and our products are used in sustainable operations in 95 countries around the world. Biorational products maximize plant quality, productivity, and sustainability.

We operate with the Sumitomo Spirit mindset, which means to benefit both self and others, recognizing that private and public interests are one and the same. It’s about contributing to society, as well as making a profit.

Description of Job: This individual will join Sumitomo Biorational Company’s Synthetic Biology department and contribute to internal metabolic engineering efforts in a variety of host microbial organisms, including prokaryotes and eukaryotes. This position will report to a Sr. Bioinformaticist in Synthetic Biology.

Principal Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate and conduct all work in strict compliance with applicable safety requirements, containment requirements, standard operating practices, and/or guidelines.
  • Synthetic Biology
    • Assist in the design, build, screen/test, and cultivation of model and non-model organisms including bacteria, yeast, and fungi.
    • Perform routine strain engineering workflows and general molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation and purification, PCR, sequencing, ligation, assembly, chemical and electrical transformations, and conjugation.
    • Development of high-throughput assays, including the design and implementation of plate-based growth assays using Agilent BioTek instruments.
    • Perform batch fermentations in either microtiter plates or flasks and prepare samples for submission for downstream organic extraction.
    • Support team members by preparing specific solid and liquid media, buffers and reagents to support synthetic biology workflows. Assist with QC and data collection as requested.
    • Accurate and well-organized record keeping of all experimental work for the development of SOPs and maintenance of an electronic laboratory notebook.
    • Prepare comprehensive slide presentations summarizing key points and results, effectively communicate findings to a larger audience as needed.
    • Maintenance of the laboratory including general housekeeping functions, inventory maintenance and organization, and equipment upkeep.
    • Assist in the onboarding of research technicians by overseeing training of general lab operations and molecular biology procedures, organizing a clear training schedule and coordinating with other lab members as needed.
  • Regulatory
    • Assist Regulatory permit submissions for the BRC.
    • Assist USDA guideline training for all BRC members.

Required skills/experience:

  • Passion for the expanding field of synthetic biology, especially as it relates to the development of novel products and sustainable solutions.
  • Experience in microbial cultivation of E. coli and other hosts.
  • Candidates with experience in one of the following: gram positive bacteria, automation tools or procedures, high-throughput assay or workflow, processing and/or analyzing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data would be preferred.
  • Biotechnology software experience, such as Geneious and Snapgene is a plus.
  • Works well in teams, especially with synthetic biology and microbiology group members but also across other research department functions.
  • Strong communication, presentation and listening skills.
  • Must be a self-starter with good organizational skills and detail-oriented.
  • Will foster a culture of diversity and inclusion.

Education:

  • BS/MS in Biology, Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry with 2-5 years of relevant experience in a research environment.

Travel: Limited travel will be required. (<5%)

What We Offer

We recognize that compensation and benefits play a crucial role in your career decisions. That’s why we’re dedicated to equitable pay practices and transparency in how we reward our employees.

Base Salary: The estimated annual base salary for this position ranges from:

$73,000 to $91,500. Individual pay is based upon location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors.

Incentives: All full-time employees are eligible for an incentive program or profit-sharing program in addition to their base salary.

Benefits:

  • High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans
  • 5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus
  • Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions
  • Financial assistance programs to support your goals
  • Life and disability insurance for added security
  • Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

At Sumitomo Biorational Company, we’re proud to power a sustainable future through our work. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been at the core of our culture since the beginning. Today, they continue to drive everything we do.

Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to a better world.

  • Sumitomo Biorational Company is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.

#LI-ONSITE

#Sumitomo