Research Technician

Department
 

BSD DFI – Genomics

About the Department
 

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.

Job Summary
 

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications
 

Education:

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

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Work Experience:

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

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications
 

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.

Working Conditions

• Lab Environment.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover Letter (preferred)

When applying, the document(s) MUST  be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family
 

Research

Role Impact
 

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status
 

Non-Exempt

Pay Frequency
 

Biweekly

Scheduled Weekly Hours
 

40

Benefits Eligible
 

Yes

Drug Test Required
 

No

Health Screen Required
 

Yes

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Posting Statement
 

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.

 

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