Research Technologist

Research Technologist 3 at Northwestern University

Department: MED-Cancer Center

Salary/Grade: NEX/13

Salary range: $23.20–$28.72 per hour

Job Summary: Participates in design and execution of research lab projects. Conducts experimental tests and procedures, processes and analyzes data. Reviews and revises existing research methodologies and may develop new methodologies, mathematical or computer models for predicting data. May ensure overall lab compliance with all associated rules and regulations.

• Following overall research objectives, independently designs, plans, conducts and troubleshoots experiments.
• Evaluates protocols and data obtained from groups of experiments and recommends changes to processes, procedures and techniques to improve quality and validity of results based upon overall project objectives.

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
• Southern, Northern, Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
• Recombinant virus production and purification

• Cell culture, cell isolation
• Functional studies
• Transfection

• Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
• Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy

• Flow cytometry
• ELISA, ELispot assay
• Cytokine assay
• Antibody production and purification

• Husbandry
• Breeding and screening transgenic mice
• Dissections
• Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
• Database management of colony

• Observes experiments, collects, records, summarizes, analyzes and interprets research data.
• Collates relevant mathematical results.
• Prepares complex tables reflecting relationships of multiple tests.
• Draws scientific conclusions.
• Writes portions of grant applications.
• Co-authors scientific papers.

• Negotiates purchases with vendors.
• Maintains and updates portions of grant budgets.
• Tracks and summarizes lab supply expenses.
• Verifies accuracy of invoices.
• Orders and/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice and/or lab supplies.

• Trains and directs other lab EEs and/or students in research techniques and procedures.

• Performs other duties 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 and 3 years’ lab/bench or other relevant experience required; OR

Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master’s or higher degree in a scientific major or related OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 1 year lab/bench or other relevant experience.

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high‑quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more!

Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care.

Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or  you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern’s non‑discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.