Lab Research Assistant LEAD - Ctr. IM and CR

Location:

Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit:
Rush Medical Center

Hospital:
Rush University Medical Center

Department:
Ctr. for IM and CR - Res

Work Type:
Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule:

8 Hr (9:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).).

Pay Range: $27.47 - $38.81 per hour

Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Job Summary:

The LEAD, Lab Research Assistant provides advanced technical, organizational, and leadership support within a research laboratory setting. This role performs complex laboratory procedures, mentors junior staff, ensures protocol adherence, and contributes to data interpretation and scientific deliverables. The Lead LRA coordinates daily lab workflows, supports principal investigators with project readiness, and helps uphold research quality, safety, and compliance standards.

Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Required

Job Qualifications:

Education:

Master’s degree or equivalent

Experience:

3 or more years of laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment, including hands-on performance of complex experimental techniques, protocol documentation, and data analysis

Prior supervisory/mentoring/advising experience

OR

Experience (in lieu of a degree): 3+ years of progressive laboratory experience, with at least 2 years involves direct execution of laboratory tests or support of active research studies; 2+ years of supervisory, mentoring, or peer advising experience in a laboratory setting

• Advanced knowledge of laboratory techniques, specialized equipment, and research workflows
• Thorough understanding of institutional safety standards and lab safety protocols
• Proficiency in interpreting data trends, troubleshooting inconsistencies, and applying statistical logic
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including accurate record-keeping and scientific summarization
• Proven ability to mentor, instruct, and guide peers or junior staff in laboratory environments
• Ability to organize complex procedures, manage competing priorities, and maintain lab readiness
• Proficient in laboratory software and systems such as REDCap, Graph Pad, Excel, ImageJ, and LIMS
• Skilled in working across teams, coordinating with cores or vendors, and maintaining collaborative professionalism
• Ability to resolve procedural issues, optimize performance, and contribute to innovation in laboratory practice

Experience:

3+ years of laboratory exposure in an academic, healthcare, or research environment AND

2+ years of supervisory / mentoring/advising experience in a laboratory setting

• Requires effective use of fine motor skills for pipetting, microscopy, and data entry tasks
• Requires good vision and manual dexterity to accurately handle lab instruments, record data, and operate computerized systems
• Frequently stands or walks during labs and may occasionally lift or carry items (e.g., reagent trays, small sample containers) up to 25lbs
• Must comply with laboratory safety standards and environmental controls, including the use of appropriate PPE and handling of chemicals or biological specimens

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The above is intended to describe the general content of and…