Research Technician

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 an hour, depending on experience and qualifications

Position Summary

The Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection within the Discipline of Microbiology and Immunology at the Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science, invites applications for a full-time Research Technician position in the Vijay Lab. We strongly encourage applications from individuals belonging to groups underrepresented in their field and those who can contribute diverse perspectives to the academic environment. The Research Technician will play a key role in supporting lab operations and assisting the Vijay Lab members with various research activities, as outlined below in the Essential Duties and Responsibilities section.

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/ paid leave, 15 sick days, and 13 holidays plus two floating holidays.

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.

Today, the university's 6 colleges continue Dr Franklin's legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and 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.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of this position is to perform essential animal husbandry tasks to maintain the laboratory mouse colony. This includes detailed record-keeping, breeder setup, ear tagging, tail snipping, euthanasia, genotyping, and immunophenotyping.

Additional responsibilities include general laboratory maintenance, such as buffer preparation, restocking supplies, and ordering reagents. The technician will also perform various molecular and cellular techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, genotyping, PCR, ELISA, tissue culture experiments, and cell line maintenance. Furthermore, the role involves assisting with animal experiments, including immunizations, tissue harvesting, and tissue processing.

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check
• Compliance with the current COVID19 vaccination policy

Required Education & Experience

• BS / MS in Biological Sciences or equivalent education.
• Proficiency in common computer programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Good organizational skills.
• Work requires knowledge of biology and a few experimental procedures.
• Good communication skills desired (both verbal and written).
• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Willingness to get trained on new laboratory techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the handling of experimental mice.
• Experience in flow cytometry is preferred.

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