Junior Research Technician

Department

BSD SRF
- Human Tissue Resource Center
- Biobank

The Human Tissue Research Center (HTRC) is a University of Chicago Biological Sciences Division (BSD) Core Facility managed by the Office of Shared Research Facilities (OSRF). The HTRC is accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and is divided into two sub-cores:
Histology and Biospecimen Bank (Biobank). The Biobank sub-core provides institutional biospecimen banking services for IRB-approved protocols involving human tissues and body fluids and serves as the distribution center for previously collected samples. It also offers Digital Pathology services with automated, high-throughput scanning for publication-quality images, quantitative image analysis and laser capture microdissection.

The Junior Research Technician provides technical support activities related to biomedical research projects, including processing and managing human biospecimens. Responsibilities include processing whole blood components, isolating peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and assisting with human tissue sample processing. The role also involves communication with Clinical Research Coordinators and investigators regarding sample handling, timelines, and laboratory supplies. Technical and administrative support is performed under direction, including data collection and basic analysis for research projects.

• Process whole blood into components (plasma, serum and DNA).
• Isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).
• Aliquot fecal samples.
• Assist in processing human tissue samples.
• Use an electronic inventory management system to track sample custody and long-term storage locations in the HTRC Freezer Farm.
• Communicate with CRCs and investigators about sample delivery, process times, and questions via phone/email/pager.
• Access
  -80 °C and liquid nitrogen (-196 °C) freezers and dry ice chest with appropriate PPE to retrieve and store biospecimens.
• Maintain adequate stock of supplies.
• Provide routine laboratory duties and collect data in support of research projects under direct supervision.
• Enter and assist in analyzing data; prepare reports, manuscripts, and other documents.
• Comply with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.
• Perform other related work as needed.

• Vocational training, apprenticeships or equivalent experience in a related field (a four‑year degree is not typically required).
• College or university degree in a related field strongly preferred.

• Under 2 years of work experience in a related discipline.
• Experience using centrifuges is strongly preferred.
• Experience with DNA extraction is strongly preferred.
• Experience with PBMC isolation is strongly preferred.
• Experience working with human biospecimens is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with Windows‑based operating systems and common software programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and web‑based applications is strongly preferred.

• Ability to multitask in a fast‑paced environment.
• Attention to detail, responsible, and professional conduct.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels and from diverse backgrounds.

• Laboratory environment.

The University of Chicago offers a comprehensive range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about 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, 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 the Applicant Inquiry Form.

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.