Research Specialist

Research Specialist 2

Position within Biological Sciences Division at the University of Chicago.

$50,000.00 / yr – $70,000.00 / yr. The actual pay will be based on skills and experience.

BSD PED – Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation – Applebaum Lab. The Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology provides care for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with cancer and other hematologic diseases, requiring specialized knowledge and skills. In addition to patient care, clinical and translational research, including laboratory-based wet lab and dry lab studies, are conducted by faculty members in the section.

The laboratory focuses on developing and testing potential new therapies for neuroblastoma, a common pediatric cancer. Survival rates for children with high‑risk neuroblastoma remain low, highlighting the urgent need for novel and effective treatments. Long‑term projects aim to advance our understanding of neuroblastoma biology and translate laboratory discoveries into clinical applications.

This position primarily provides experimental support for ongoing studies on the fundamental mechanisms of m6A epitranscriptomic gene regulation and the evaluation of drugs that inhibit m6A deposition on mRNA for the treatment of neuroblastoma. Additional projects involve assessing the effects of synthetic transcriptional repressors of MYCN and other MYCN‑targeted gene repressors. Research uses both cell culture and mouse models to closely replicate human disease, with a strong emphasis on clinical translation.

Key responsibilities include maintaining resources to support research involving laboratory animal models, adhering to established protocols, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The role requires flexibility, strong attention to detail, and the ability to perform essential functions to meet research objectives. Additional duties include participating in the preparation of institutional animal care protocols, assisting with presentations and manuscripts, and ensuring that all research activities comply with institutional, state, and federal regulations.

Employment is at‑will and funded by extramural grants. Performance and continuation of funds are prerequisites for continued employment.

• Cares for mice involved in treatment studies, including administering injections per laboratory protocols and maintaining mouse colonies.
• Monitors animals daily to assess health, welfare, and potential effects of research procedures.
• Performs laboratory tasks such as cell culture, molecular biology assays, and data analysis.
• Ensures all activities comply with institutional, state, and federal regulatory requirements.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens; conducts literature reviews; assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Performs other related work as needed.

• College or university degree in a related field.
• Less than 2 years of work experience in a related discipline.

• Two years of experience handling mice in a laboratory setting, or a strong willingness to learn.
• Proficiency in cell culture techniques.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with tissue harvesting and mouse colony management.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory equipment and data analysis software.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Laboratory setting.

Research

Individual Contributor

40 hours

• Resume (required)

When applying, upload documents via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

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.

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773‑702‑5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.