Research Technician

Position Summary

We are seeking a laboratory technician to support on-going research programs in the investigation of neural circuitry associated with the generation of stress resilience and vulnerability. This person will work as part of a research team and oversee day-to-day operations as well as conduct independent studies in a neuroscience laboratory setting utilizing various behavioral and histological methodologies.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b) retirement plan which includes a 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation, 15 sick days, and 13 holidays plus two floating holidays. That is a minimum of 30 paid days off each year!

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA. RFU is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, cardiac resuscitation, and gait and balance.

As part of our efforts to enhance the depth and breadth of research at RFU and to facilitate the translation of our basic science research to the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and identification of biomarkers in order to improve human health, a new Innovation and Research Park (IRP) was constructed, opening in January 2020. The novel design of the IRP enables academic researchers to reside in state-of-the-art laboratory space that is in close proximity to industry researchers on each floor of the 100,000 sq ft building. It also houses our Helix 51 Incubator, Chicago's newest bioscience incubator for startups. To learn more, see https://www.rosalindfranklin.edu/research/innovation-and-research-park/

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee the maintenance of laboratory equipment and general laboratory maintenance duties such as ordering, receiving and ensuring necessary reagents are stocked

• Record keeping for experiments as well as laboratory equipment maintenance logs and chemicals

• Laboratory animal handling for behavioral analysis and surgical (experience with stereotaxic surgery is a plus) and perfusions

• Perform general biochemical and molecular biology procedures (Western analysis, in situ hybridization)

• Perform immunohistochemistry assays including tissue slicing, tissue imaging and analysis

• Contribute to teaching and support of various lab techniques to students and/or new lab personnel

• Maintain records for equipment, antibodies and chemicals

• Perform other related duties as assigned or delegated

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check

• Compliance with the current COVID19 vaccination policy

Required Education & Experience

• Some college-level biology lab experience

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Excellent organizational, writing and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work accurately and with attention to detail

• Ability to take constructive instruction

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Motivated and ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Experience with basic computer programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree

• Previous experience as a laboratory technician in a biomedical research laboratory with wet bench and/or lab animal handling experience

• Experience with data acquisition and statistical software

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets