Visiting Research Specialist - College of Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Sciences - Travin Lab

Visiting Research Specialist - College of Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Sciences - Travin Lab

Hiring Department:
Pharmaceutical Sciences

Location:

Chicago, IL USA

Requisition

Posting Close Date:
January 15, 2026

Salary: $45,000 - $55,000

UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).

Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting‑edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report found UIC climbed in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities.

UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits, including Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The newly established lab of Dr. Dmitrii Travin at the University of Illinois Chicago Retzky College of Pharmacy focuses on the discovery and development of novel natural products with antibacterial activities. This role will involve designing and executing experiments, including DNA, RNA, and protein analysis, utilizing advanced molecular techniques such as high‑performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, contributing to protocol development, data analysis, and preparing scientific manuscripts and reports in collaboration with a cross‑functional research team.

• Keep accurate records of experiments suitable for writing manuscripts and grant proposals.
• Present the results at scientific meetings.
• Conduct experiments and research activities: natural product extraction and purification, molecular cloning, protein purification, and bacterial cultivation.
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of research methods, experimental procedures, and obtained results.
• Contribute to laboratory management, perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, troubleshoot technical problems, and manage consumable inventory.
• Train and supervise junior staff, students, and volunteers, ensuring proficiency in laboratory techniques and safety protocols.
• Actively participate in lab meetings and journal clubs, contribute to discussions, share insights, and remain current with the latest scientific literature.
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of related research experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices, and methods.
• Proficiency in common molecular biology techniques such as PCR, cloning, and protein purification.

• Master's degree in science preferred.
• Previous experience in natural products research.
• Experience with mass spectrometry.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit the Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non‑discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify.

The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation.