Core Technician

Department: CRN - Ctr Regenerative Nanomed
Salary/Grade: NEX/12

Job Summary:

Performs the required standard operating procedures of the Core Research Facilities of the Center for Regenerative Nanomedicine (CRN). This includes the execution of research activities associated with established protocols and procedures; modifying them as needed. Operates or guides, and trains Core users in utilizing the facility's specialized equipment and services in support of user needs. Ensures the smooth flow and quality of daily work within the lab and ensures compliance in regard to University, sponsor, and federal rules and regulations.

This position provides laboratory support functions for CRN, Peptide Synthesis Core, research programs, and mission. Key responsibilities include design and execution of peptide synthesis, organic synthesis, HPLC purification and other related laboratory duties in a service-based environment. Independently conducts experiments, carries out procedures and processes and analyzes data. Troubleshoots and revises existing methodologies and may develop new experimental methodologies.

CRN promotes research convergence in basic science, engineering, and medicine to improve human health. The overarching goal is to foster effective research collaborations within Northwestern University and across the globe. CRN research concentrates on regenerative medicine with complementary activities in developing targeted nanotherapeutics, advanced materials, and electroactive biomaterials. The CRN Peptide Synthesis Core is located on the Chicago campus.

Please note: The candidate for this position will work in a chemistry laboratory environment. Occasionally a flexible work schedule may be required.

Specific Responsibilities:

Administration

• May enter services for billing purposes in the Core Facility's automated service/ billing system.
• Compiles information for billing with accuracy.
• May assist in invoicing clients for services rendered.
• Maintains laboratory inventories.
• Documents all work accurately and completely.

Collaboration

• Interacts with both Core Staff and users.

Compliance

• Ensures compliance with University safety protocols, relative to the use of combustibles, toxic material, and/or carcinogenics.
• Prepares reagents.

Scientific

• Plans, conducts, and evaluates experiments of low-to-moderate complexities
• Demonstrates an understanding of protocols and guiding principles, and applies the protocols to experiments.
• Calculates, records, compiles, and reports data.
• Analyzes and interprets data.
• Engages in problem-solving, relative to daily lab activities.

Technical

• Maintains instrumentation and equipment used in services provided by the Core Facility.
• Understands and follows all equipment manuals.
• Maintains and performs basic equipment repairs, in compliance with manufacturer and University guidelines
• Troubleshoots instrumentation and equipment problems.
• Cleans and performs general maintenance on equipment.
• Executes and facilitates delivery of specialized.
• Ensures compliance with all University, sponsor and federal rules and regulations.

Chemistry:

• Analyze organic chemistry
• Column chromatography
• Chromatography
• HPLC
• NMR
• Mass spectrometry
• Solid phase extraction

Equipment Used:

• Analytical balance
• Centrifuge
• pH meter
• UV/Vis Spectrophotometer
• pH meter, plate reader
• automated peptide synthesizer
• mass spectrometer/LCMS
• rotary evaporator
• lyophilizer

Training

• May assist in the training of technicians and trainees including students

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 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 chemistry, biology, materials science or related field; OR appropriate combination of education and experience,
• 2 years of technical or other relevant experience required.

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

• 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;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with strong customer service orientation;
• Excellent organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biochemistry, Chemical or Biomedical Engineering or related fields, and 1-2 years practical lab/bench experience
• Previous experience with organic synthesis, solid phase peptide synthesis and HPLC;
• Experience with general laboratory equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of faculty and student researchers;
• Ability to train, assist, and oversee student researchers;
• Ability to plan, execute, and track multiple projects simultaneously;
• Ability to adapt in a changing environment toward efficiently completing goals;
• May need to influence others without direct authority.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $24.00-$27.00 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 and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, 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 University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

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