Research Technologist 1 - Brain Tumor Immunology

Department: MED-Neurological Surgery
Salary/Grade: NEX/9

Job Summary

The Brain Tumor Laboratory of Dr. Catalina Lee-Chang in the Department of Neurological Surgery within the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine requires a Research Technologist to contribute to daily operations within the lab. The lab's mission is to perform translational research on brain tumors immunology for the development of better immunotherapeutic strategies. The PI is a trained neuroimmunologist who is NIH-funded to study the place of the immune system in glioblastomas.

The lab focuses on immune cell adaptation within the glioma's microenvironment and the development of novel therapeutics utilizing the anti-cancer immune response. This work will involve the use of immunology-related assays such as flow cytometry, lymphocyte functional assays or immunofluorescence; but also, manipulation of cell lines, and human biospecimens, biochemistry and molecular biology. The lab also integrates big data approaches such as single-cell RNA sequencing to better understand the interactions between the tumor and its microenvironment (especially the tumor infiltrating immune compartment).

The Research Technologist will study the molecular and immunological mechanisms of brain cancers, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities to conduct cutting-edge research with the intention of publishing the results in pre-eminent peer-reviewed scientific journals such as Cell or Nature.

Specific duties includes: conducts, tests, and procedures; sets up and operates equipment; records observations and measurements and collects as well as compiles data; conduct basic animal and experimental research lab work and/or assist in one or more phases of specific projects.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Follows pre-defined protocols, policies, procedure, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices and conducts standard and repetitive experiments and completes basic trouble-shooting techniques.
• Sets-up, operates and maintains standard lab equipment.
• Using an entry level of skill, completes the following activities

Molecular Biology:

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression Southern, Northern, Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping,
• and sequencing of DNA
• Recombinant virus production and purification

Cellular Biology:

• Cell culture, cell isolation
• Functional studies
• Transfection

Animal:

• Husbandry
• Breeding and screening transgenic mice
• Dissections
• Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
• Database management of colony

Other (please specify):

• Records test results and may maintain databases.
• Completes standard and routine clerical duties such as copying, filing, data entry, word processing, etc.
• Maintains inventory of reagents, mice and lab supplies

Miscellaneous

• Completes other duties as assigned

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

• HS diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field (cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, biophysics, etc.)
• Experience working on brain tumor or translational cancer research.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment with mouse models.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions and research protocols.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including spreadsheets and word processing.
• Attention to detail, ability to ensure ongoing organization of laboratory environment.
• Precise and accurate record keeping, adherence to ethical standards of research.
• Ability to work reliably, both independently and in a team environment.
• Manual dexterity.
• Ability to assist and train other lab members in routine protocols.
• Ability to build rapport with faculty and ancillary staff.
• Ability to comprehend and critique published scholarly articles.
• Familiarity and experience with animal care and tissue culture methods.
• Excellent organizational, oral and written communication skills.
• High familiarity with use of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Above average planning, organization and time management skills.
• Knowledge of and adherence to safety and regulatory compliance.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $17.05-$20.51 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.

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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.

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