Research Technician

Department BSD MED - Gastroenterology - Mcdonald Research Staff About the Department Within the Section of Gastroenterology, the McDonald Lab seeks to better understand the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with a particular focus on how host-microbe interactions drive disease initiation and progression. We are primarily interested in the development of a devastating complication of Crohn’s disease termed perianal Crohn’s disease. We combine patient-facing clinical and translational studies with cutting-edge assays on biospecimens obtained from patients to answer key questions about the disease. Job Summary The Section of Gastroenterology is looking for a Research Technician interested in the field of mucosal immunology and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) to work with the group of Dr. McDonald. His group is working on projects aimed at understanding host and microbial factors that contribute to IBD pathogenesis and response to therapy. These projects entail working with patient samples obtained from IBD patients. The candidate will be in charge of all aspects of sample processing and storage and will work closely with clinical research coordinators charged with sample acquisition. In addition, the candidate should have skills in molecular biology to perform the preparation of libraries for RNA-sequencing, in tissue processing for microscopy, and in cellular immunology to perform and assist with immunology experiments that involve cell isolation, cytokine-based assays, and flow cytometry. Finally, the candidate will participate in laboratory meetings regarding current research and other lab activities and will assist with organizing the laboratory and ordering supplies. Responsibilities Isolate and freeze cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and intestinal biopsies. Perform RNA isolation, and library preparation for RNA sequencing. Perform flow cytometry experiments and Elisa. Performs tissue processing for microscopy. Perform and assist with immunology experiments under supervision of principal investigator, postdoctoral researcher or graduate student. Collects, records, and analyzes data. Participates in presentation, manuscript, and grant proposal preparation. Participates in laboratory meetings regarding current research and other lab activities. Assists with organizing laboratory and ordering supplies. Maintains a safe environment for others and self; adheres to safety policies and procedures. Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project. Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents. 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 Certifications: --- Preferred Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in biology or related field. Experience: Experience in flow cytometry, microscopy, molecular biology, or genomics. Experience with human samples. Preferred Competencies Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Basic immunology coursework. Adaptability and willingness 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. When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application. 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 $50,000.00 - $70,000.00 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 . 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