Research Technologist 2 - One Year Term Appointment

Department: MCC Biomedical Engg

Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary:

Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). May complete mathematical calculations, and/or computer tasks and/or assist in judging validity of data. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, good clinical and good laboratory practices.

The Research Technologist will perform duties in the Kamat and Leonard Laboratories located in the Biomedical Engineering Department and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department, respectively. The two laboratories are located in shared laboratory and office space. Join a team involved in understanding and designing biological membranes for basic science and applications in medicine and biotechnology. The research technologist will provide logistical support for the smooth running of the labs: carry out ordering and lab maintenance, manage laboratory spending, maintain supply and reagent inventories, organize lab strain collection, manage equipment maintenance, and help manage laboratory safety responsibilities. The research technologist will also assist in general laboratory duties: prepare laboratory reagents, cell culture, dishwashing and other laboratory duties. This position requires a practical understanding of a limited number of standard scientific techniques in molecular biology and biochemistry.

This is a one-year termed position subject to renewal dependent on performance and available funding.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Following protocols, designs, sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
• Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy.
• Using a fully functioning level of skill, completes the following activities

Molecular Biology:

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression, Western blotting
• PCR,
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA

Cellular Biology:

• Cell culture, cell isolation
• Transfection

Administration

• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
• Manipulates, interprets &/or presents results.
• Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.

Finance

• Tracks & summarizes lab supply expenses.
• Verifies accuracy of invoices.
• Orders &/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice &/or lab supplies.

Supervises

• Trains students.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrated laboratory experience;
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols;
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations;
• Attention to detail and accurate record keeping;
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Manual dexterity.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• A B.S. in a science or engineering major

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Experience working with laboratory inventory management
• Experience working with biological membranes and/or protein assemblies
• Experience working with basic website maintenance
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel
• Familiarity with WordPress

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.89 - $27.97 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits:

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:

Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.

We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:

Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for people who can obtain them as a critical tool for minimizing severe illness. More information can be found on the COVID-19 and Campus Updates webpage.

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Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.

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