Lab Technician - Beckman Institute Job Champaign area,Illinois USA,Research/Development

About the Role

The Molecule Maker Lab (MML) is a research laboratory at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign (UIUC). Supported by the National Science Foundation and UIUC, MML advances small molecule innovation through block chemistry, a modular and iterative approach to carbon‑carbon bond formation designed for integration with robotic synthesis platforms and AI‑guided discovery. Completed missions include a safer antifungal drug candidate, a record‑breaking laser material, and advances in smart photovoltaic systems.

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) and Managing Director (MD), the Lab Technician will support laboratory operations with a focus on small molecule purification and analysis. This role requires hands‑on experience with HPLC instrumentation and related analytical techniques. The successful candidate will demonstrate initiative, accuracy, and strong organizational skills in maintaining high‑quality experimental output.

This position is open to University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign students and affiliates.

Responsibilities

The Lab Technician will play a vital role in supporting the scientific research and operations of the lab.

Molecule Purification (60%)

Perform purification of substrates and final molecules using HPLC and related techniques.
Operate and maintain purification systems to ensure optimal performance.
Accurately document purification processes and results in lab records.
Troubleshoot purification workflows to improve yield and purity.

Building Block Synthesis (15%)

Assist in the synthesis of chemical building blocks and intermediates under supervision.
Follow standard protocols and maintain accurate records of procedures and yields.
Prepare reagents and manage small‑scale synthetic reactions.

Purchasing Consumables and Equipment (15%)

Manage inventory of lab supplies, chemicals, and equipment.
Place orders and liaise with vendors to ensure timely delivery of materials.
Track expenditures and assist with maintaining the budget for lab operations.

Lab Maintenance (10%)

Maintain cleanliness and organization of lab spaces.
Calibrate and clean lab instruments on a regular schedule.
Ensure adherence to safety protocols and proper disposal of waste.

Requirements

Proficiency in operating and maintaining HPLC systems (e.g., Agilent, Shimadzu).
Familiarity with chromatography and analytical software such as Chem Station, Mass Hunter, and Prep LCMS.
Ability to kneel, bend, and crouch regularly.
Capable of lifting up to 25 pounds as part of routine lab work.
Strong attention to detail and excellent documentation practices.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Good communication and organizational skills.
1-2 years of experience in small molecule purification.
1-2 years of hands‑on experience operating and maintaining HPLC instruments.
Demonstrated ability to interpret chromatography data.
Experience working in a laboratory setting while following SOPs and safety protocols.
Proven ability to document experimental work accurately in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.
Strong knowledge of HPLC principles and theory, including reverse‑phase and gradient separations.
Proficiency in operating and maintaining HPLC hardware (Agilent) and software (Agilent PREP‑LCMS).
High level of initiative, judgment, and problem‑solving ability.
Excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills.
Strong accuracy and attention to detail.
Ability to multi‑task and work independently with minimal supervision.
Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity.

Preferred

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
Advanced coursework or training in analytical chemistry, separation sciences, or related fields.
Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment (e.g., GLP).
Exposure to method development and optimization for HPLC purification.
Familiarity with analytical techniques such as Mass Spectrometry (MS), UV‑Vis, TLC, and NMR.
Experience with post‑purification techniques (e.g., lyophilization, rotary evaporation).
Knowledge of adjacent analytical techniques (UV‑Vis, LC‑MS, TLC).
Ability to troubleshoot HPLC system issues (e.g., pressure fluctuations, baseline noise).
Experience with lab automation tools and liquid handling systems.
Flexibility to work variable hours as needed.

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