Research Analyst

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Carvill Laboratory, within the Section of Genetics and Genomics in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Chicago, is seeking a Research Analyst. This laboratory focuses on investigating the genetic causes of epilepsy and understanding how pathogenic variants impact brain development and function. The research integrates genomic, computational, and stem cell-based approaches to identify and test gene-targeted therapies. The role involves working collaboratively with clinicians at Comer Children’s Hospital and researchers in the Department of Human Genetics, offering direct exposure to the translation of genetic discoveries into patient care. The position is expected to develop independent competence in basic research approaches, combining technical support with opportunities for independent advancement of scientific research projects. Individuals will work with moderate guidance, execute and troubleshoot experimental protocols, and contribute to the design and interpretation of project components. The primary goal is to use gene discovery and molecular biology to identify new treatments for epilepsy, utilizing stem cell models to understand genetic variants and applying precision medicine principles.

Requirements

College or university degree in a related field.
< 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Molecular biology techniques, including cloning, PCR, qPCR, nucleic acid extraction, and protein blotting.
Mammalian cell culture, including aseptic technique and maintenance of continuous cultures.
Attention to detail and accuracy when performing established laboratory procedures.
Organizational skills with the ability to complete assigned tasks and meet deadlines.
Ability to follow established protocols accurately, maintain complete laboratory documentation, and work effectively as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Laboratory research experience in molecular biology, genetics, or genomics, including academic, thesis, or internship experience.
Exposure to CRISPR based genome editing or lentiviral transduction.
Familiarity with next generation sequencing methods such as RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, or ChIP-seq.
Experience with mammalian cell culture.
Basic familiarity with command line tools or a scripting language such as R or Python.
Prior research experience in a genetics, genomics, or neuroscience setting.
Familiarity with CRISPR based genetic engineering.
Lentiviral vector production and transduction.
Preparation and quality assessment of ChIP seq, ATAC seq, and RNA seq libraries.
Basic familiarity with bioinformatic analysis tools such as R, Python, or equivalent command line tools.
Protein interaction analysis using mass spectrometry and rapid protein degradation using degron systems.
Culture and neuronal differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including clear communication of scientific methods and findings.

Responsibilities

Performs molecular biology and genomics experiments according to established laboratory protocols including CRISPR based genome editing, lentiviral transduction, and culture and differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cell derived neuronal models.
Prepares and processes next generation sequencing libraries for ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, and RNA-seq.
Performs primary quality control and reports inconsistent results to the principal investigator.
Runs established bioinformatics pipelines to process genomic and transcriptomic data and summarizes output for review.
Assists with rapid protein degradation experiments using degron systems and characterizes protein to protein interactions by mass spectrometry.
Participates in multidisciplinary projects with clinicians and clinical staff at Comer Children’s Hospital and with investigators in the Department of Human Genetics.
Performs laboratory research, generating high-quality and rigorous scientific data.
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.
Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
Performs other related work as needed.