Research Technician

Department

BSD DFI – Genomics

The Duchossois Family Institute (DFI) investigates the role of the microbiome in resistance and susceptibility to infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The microbiome consists of complex populations of microbes that can be characterized by DNA and RNA sequencing. Technicians in the DFI Microbiome Metagenomic core laboratory are involved in the isolation and characterization of microbial DNA and RNA from experimental and clinical samples in preparation for next‑generation sequence analysis.

Skills that technicians are likely to acquire in the laboratory include DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, library quantification, PCR amplification and quantitative PCR.

The ideal candidate will work under the supervision of the DFI Microbiome Metagenomics director in accordance with established institutional policies and laboratory procedures. This is an entry‑level position with a focus on molecular biology and next‑generation sequencing.

• Aliquot and prepare experimental and clinical samples for freezing.
• Extract DNA and RNA from samples and precisely quantify concentrations.
• Library preparation for next‑generation sequencing – Amplicon, DNA and RNA‑seq for Illumina platforms.
• Utilization of an automated liquid handling robotic system.
• Work both independently and in a team‑based environment.
• Analyze sequence data using specialized statistical software programs.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens, conducts literature reviews, assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Education: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field.

Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications: (none listed)

Education: BS in Molecular Biology or related scientific discipline.

Experience:

• Experience in next‑generation sequencing (NGS) of microbial genomes.
• Experience using a robotic liquid handling system.
• Experience with aseptic technique.
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques including nucleic acid extraction, purification, and PCR amplification.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Technical proficiency in basic molecular biology techniques such as DNA and/or RNA extraction and quantification, PCR amplification, gel electrophoresis.
• Basic competency in computer software programs such as R statistical software.

Preferred

Competencies:

• Demonstrated ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
• Excellent record‑keeping and organizational skills.
• Strong multi‑tasking and time‑management capabilities.
• Interactive communication and the ability to work as a team player.
• Ability to work independently.
• Adaptability to changing working situations and work assignments.

Lab Environment.

Benefits Eligible:
Yes

Health Screen

Required:

Yes

Drug Test

Required:

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry

Required:

No

FLSA Status:
Non‑Exempt

Scheduled Weekly

Hours:

40

Pay Frequency:
Biweekly

Job Family:
Research

Role Impact:
Individual Contributor

• Resume (required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)

The University of Chicago is an affirmative action/equal opportunity/disabled/veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, 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.

Staff 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. We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case‑by‑case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.