Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Department: WCAS Neurobiology
Salary/Grade: NEX/9
Job Summary:
Position for a Research Technologist to support the activities of a neurobiology laboratory that works at the interface of genetics, neurophysiology and behavior. The position involves conducting lab work and assisting in the design and execution of one or more specific phases of entire projects. Current projects requiring support involve transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9 editing, electrophysiology and behavioral assays in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and in non-domesticated Drosophila species. The primary responsibility will be to support one or more of the Lab's ongoing projects by planning and execution of molecular cloning, electrophysiology, cell culture, Drosophila transgenesis and behavioral assays. Other scientific activities may include dissection/microscopy and genotyping. Administrative activities are expected to be limited and may include tracking and ordering lab supplies and general lab maintenance. Expected to present progress and data in scientific group meetings. Position requires basic skills in molecular biology, making solutions, facility with computers and the ability to understand and judge validity of data. Must have exceptionally strong attention to details and organizational skills and must work well in a team. Position follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, and Good Laboratory Practices. Previous experience with electrophysiology/cell culture, is preferred but not required.
This will be a 1-year renewable position based upon performance and funding availability. This is a full-time position at 40 hours per week and works on-site. The target hiring range for this position will be between $35,600 - $44,495 per year, which is $17.05-$21.31 per hour. The salary offered will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Specific Responsibilities:
Follows pre-defined protocols, policies, procedure, regulations, Good Laboratory Practices and conducts standard and repetitive experiments and completes basic trouble-shooting techniques. Sets-up, operates and maintains standard lab equipment.
Using an entry level of skill, completes the following activities:
Molecular Biology:

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning and sequencing of DNA

Animal:

• Drosophila Husbandry (preferred)
• Cellular Biology:
• Cell culture (preferred)
• Electrophysiology (preferred)

Histology:

• Tissue fixation/ staining
• Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy
• Other (please specify):
• Previous experience with fruit flies is preferred

Administration:

• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting & entering data. Analyzes, interprets and presents results in charts and graphs to be used in presentations and publications. Searching scientific literature in support of research.

Finance:

• Tracks, summarizes and verifies invoices for lab supply expenses.

Miscellaneous
Performed other duties
Minimum Qualifications:

• HS diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses are required.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrated ability to carry out laboratory experiments and to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocol. Demonstrated manual dexterity, attention to detail, accuracy in record keeping, reliability and responsibility to perform job duties. Ability to work both as an individual and a team. Ability to work with animals (Drosophila fruit flies)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in biology; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Eagerness and ability to learn new techniques both as an individual and a team member. Ability and eagerness to participate in design of experiments under the supervision of the PI or fellows. Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills. Good organizational skills and manual dexterity. Previous experience with physiology work.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .
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