Core Technician

Job Summary

Performs required standard operating procedures of the Core Research Facilities of the Center for Regenerative Nanomedicine (CRN). This includes execution of research activities associated with established protocols and procedures; modifying them as needed. Operates or guides, and trains Core users in utilizing the facility's specialized equipment and services in support of user needs. Ensures the smooth flow and quality of daily work within the lab and ensures compliance in regard to university, sponsor, and federal rules and regulations.

This position provides laboratory support functions for CRN, Peptide Synthesis Core, research programs, and mission. Key responsibilities include design and execution of peptide synthesis, organic synthesis, HPLC purification and other related laboratory duties in a service-based environment. Independently conducts experiments, carries out procedures and processes and analyzes data. Troubleshoots and revises existing methodologies and may develop new experimental methodologies.

CRN promotes research convergence in basic science, engineering, and medicine to improve human health. The overarching goal is to foster effective research collaborations within Northwestern University and across the globe. CRN research concentrates on regenerative medicine with complementary activities in developing targeted nanotherapeutics, advanced materials, and electroactive biomaterials. The CRN Peptide Synthesis Core is located on the Chicago campus.

Please note: The candidate for this position will work in a chemistry laboratory environment. Occasionally a flexible work schedule may be required.

• May enter services for billing purposes in the Core Facility's automated service/billing system.
• Compiles information for billing with accuracy.
• May assist in invoicing clients for services rendered.
• Maintains laboratory inventories.
• Documents all work accurately and completely.

• Interacts with both Core Staff and users.

• Ensures compliance with University safety protocols, relative to the use of combustibles, toxic material, and/or carcinogenics.
• Prepares reagents.

• Plans, conducts, and evaluates experiments of low-to-moderate complexities.
• Demonstrates an understanding of protocols and guiding principles, and applies the protocols to experiments.
• Calculates, records, compiles, and reports data.
• Analyzes and interprets data.
• Engages in problem-solving, relative to daily lab activities.

• Maintains instrumentation and equipment used in services provided by the Core Facility.
• Understands and follows all equipment manuals.
• Maintains and performs basic equipment repairs, in compliance with manufacturer and University guidelines.
• Troubleshoots instrumentation and equipment problems.
• Cleans and performs general maintenance on equipment.
• Executes and facilitates delivery of specialized.
• Ensures compliance with all University, sponsor and federal rules and regulations.

• Analyze organic chemistry.
• Column chromatography.
• Chromatography.
• HPLC.
• NMR.
• Mass spectrometry.
• Solid phase extraction.

• Analytical balance
• Centrifuge
• pH meter
• UV/Vis Spectrophotometer
• Plate reader
• Automated peptide synthesizer
• Mass spectrometer/LCMS
• Rotary evaporator
• Lyophilizer

• May assist in the training of technicians and trainees including students.

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 chemistry, biology, materials science or related field; or appropriate combination of education and experience.
• 2 years of technical or other relevant experience required.

• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols.
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations.
• Attention to detail and accurate record-keeping.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with strong customer service orientation.
• Excellent organizational skills.

• MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biochemistry, Chemical or Biomedical Engineering or related fields, and 1-2 years practical lab/bench experience.
• Previous experience with organic synthesis, solid phase peptide synthesis and HPLC.
• Experience with general laboratory equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of faculty and student researchers.
• Ability to train, assist, and oversee student researchers.
• Ability to plan, execute, and track multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to adapt in a changing environment toward efficiently completing goals.
• May need to influence others without direct authority.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $24.00 and $27.00 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education,…