Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Pay rate : $17 - $22 an hour, depending on experience and qualifications

Position Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Kimberly Laffey in the Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Assistant. The Laffey lab investigates the cellular mechanisms driving leukemic and autoimmune development of early progenitor cells in the thymus. Using primary human cells and mouse models, the lab studies causal signals that influence the pathologic vs. physiologic fate decisions of thymic progenitors, with the long-term goal of modulating these signals to treat leukemia and autoimmune diabetes. This position offers broad exposure and training in immunology and animal research, and a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a newly established lab. Individuals who enjoy learning new techniques, taking greater ownership as they gain experience, and fostering a highly collaborative lab culture are encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should submit: (1) Statement of interest describing your relevant skills and how this position will contribute to your career goals; (2) CV; and (3) contact information for three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long-term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b)-retirement plan which includes a 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full-time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ personal leave, 15 sick days, and 9 paid holidays, paid winter break, plus two floating holidays.

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA.

Today, the university’s 6 colleges continue Dr Franklin’s legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain laboratory inventory and order supplies.
• Ensure lab cleanliness, adherence to safety standards, and proper waste disposal.
• Assist with equipment upkeep, calibration, and basic troubleshooting.
• Over time, contribute to training new lab members and the continued development of lab infrastructure.

Experimental Support

• Prepare media, reagents, and buffers.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures under sterile conditions.
• Perform immunological and molecular assays including flow cytometry, immunostaining, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and Western blotting.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and results.
• Assist in data analysis and visualization for publication.
• Contribute to a collaborative and conducive research environment.

Colony Maintenance

• Assist with mouse colony management, breeding, genotyping, and databasing.
• Perform routine mouse procedures following approved animal protocols.
• Collect and process tissues and samples for downstream analyses.

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in a laboratory environment.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Competency in standard laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA/RNA prep, mammalian cell culture, media and buffer preparation.
• Willingness to work with laboratory mice.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with flow cytometry and immunofluorescence techniques is highly desirable.
• Experience in mouse work (husbandry, injection, dissection).
• Experience in library preparation for sequencing.

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets