Research Analyst

University of Chicago • Hyde Park, VT

6d • $50,000 - $70,000

About The Position

The Zhou Lab in the Department of Neurology at the University of Chicago investigates how somatic mosaicism and age-associated mutagenesis drive selective vulnerability in the aging human brain. We focus on major neurodegenerative disorders, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). The lab utilizes advanced genomic technologies including high-depth duplex sequencing and targeted long-read sequencing, to identify pathogenic mutations and repeat expansions in human brain tissue. The Research Analyst will provide technical and analytical support for research on somatic mosaicism in brain aging and neurodegeneration. Under the guidance of the PI, the candidate will perform molecular and genomic analyses to determine how rare genetic variants in subsets of brain cells initiate focal neurodegeneration and influence its spread.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree.
• Basic knowledge or hands-on experience with genomic/omics data analysis.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, Western Blotting) and experience with or willingness to learn library preparation for NGS.
• Strong organizational skills for maintaining accurate experimental records and curating large datasets.
• Effective communication skills for presenting data and collaborating within a research team.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular genetics assays, specifically supporting single-cell sequencing and long-read sequencing library preparation.
• Perform biochemical, cell culture, and animal experiments to elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying mutagenesis.
• Conduct targeted literature reviews on somatic repeat expansions and neurogenetics; assist with the preparation of scientific manuscripts and grant applications.
• Interact with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the PI.
• Maintain lab databases for molecular and omics data and perform other related work as needed.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens.
• Conducts literature reviews.
• Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees