Research Technologist II

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago provides superior pediatric care in a setting that offers the latest benefits and innovations in medical technology, research and family-friendly design. As the largest pediatric provider in the region with a 140-year legacy of excellence, kids and their families are at the center of all we do. Ann & Robert H.

Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is ranked in all 10 specialties by the U.S. News & World Report.
** Location
* * Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center
** Job Description
**** General

Summary:

** The Research Technologist II will perform lab work in the Akhtar Laboratory within the Host-Microbial Interactions, Inflammation, and Immunity (HMI3) Neighborhood in the Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute at Lurie Children's Hospital.  The focus of the Akhtar laboratory is to understand the interaction between viruses and the pediatric brain. To achieve this goal, the lab employs a diverse range of approaches, including animal models, cell culture models, molecular biology, and genome sequencing.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing clinically relevant research in the laboratory, which addresses how variations within the viral genome contribute to different neurological outcomes and identifies critical components of defense in the pediatric brain against viral infection. This position will provide a strong foundation for individuals contemplating continued training in medical or graduate school.

The successful candidate will conduct experiments to support research in the laboratory, including viral infection of animals and cells, viral plaque assays, nucleic acid and protein isolation, PCR, immunoblotting, viral genome sequencing, generation of viral mutants, and microscopy techniques. Additionally, the candidate will be asked to record and interpret results, organize data, and prepare short reports to be discussed with the Principal Investigator.

Finally, the Research Technician will spend a portion of their time performing basic laboratory maintenance tasks, including cataloging and organizing laboratory reagents, inventorying and ordering laboratory supplies, preparing chemical solutions for laboratory use, and performing routine maintenance on laboratory equipment. It is anticipated that successful projects in which the technician participates will lead to authorship on scientific manuscripts.
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* Essential Job Functions:

*** Support scientific research, analysis, and experimentation by performing various laboratory tasks. Following protocols, designs and sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
* Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improved processes, validity and accuracy.
* Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting and entering data.  Manipulates, interpret and/or presents results.
* Prepares charts and graphs for presentations and publications.
* Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
* Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts and publications.
* Tracks and summarizes lab supply expenses.  Verifies accuracy of invoices. Orders and maintains inventory of reagent, mice and/or lab supplies.
* Calibrate and validate laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and precision in testing. Record and analyze data and report findings to senior laboratory staff.
* Maintain an organized and well-stocked laboratory by managing supplies, reagents, and equipment inventory. Place orders for necessary materials.
* Other job functions as assigned.
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* Education and Experience:

*** 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 a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
* Minimum of 1 year of experience working with diverse groups of people.
* Working knowledge of computers, ability to troubleshoot, work independently, and function as a team member is essential.  Therefore, experience in regular interaction with outside…