Research Technologist II

Location

Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center

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. 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.

Successful projects may lead to authorship on scientific manuscripts.

• Support scientific research, analysis, and experimentation by performing various laboratory tasks; following protocols, designs, and set‑ups and conducting basic experiments.
• Analyze and troubleshoot protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommend alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and accuracy.
• Maintain detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting, and entering data. Manipulate, interpret and/or present results.
• Prepare charts and graphs for presentations and publications.
• Perform scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Complete portions of grant applications, manuscripts and publications.
• Track and summarize lab supply expenses, verify accuracy of invoices, and order and maintain 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 and placing orders for necessary materials.
• Other job functions as assigned.

• 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; experience in regular interaction with outside groups is highly desirable.
• Excellent command of the English language and the ability to communicate effectively.
• Strong organizational skills including the ability to establish priorities, react promptly to a large variety of requests, and the ability to keep the workplace clean and organized.

$40,560.00 – $62,878.40 per year.

For full‑time and part‑time employees who work 20 or more hours per week we offer a generous benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Employer paid group term life and disability insurance
• Employer contribution toward Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid…