Research Technologist II

Lurie Children's Hospital•Chicago, IL

10d

About The Position

The Research Technologist / Postdoctoral Fellow will perform laboratory research in the Coates Laboratory within the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and the Department of Pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. The Coates Laboratory investigates mechanisms of lung injury and repair following severe pediatric viral respiratory infections, with a particular emphasis on influenza A virus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Our work integrates immunology, epithelial biology, and lung development to understand how antiviral responses shape acute disease severity and long-term pulmonary outcomes. As a basic and translational research program, the Coates Laboratory utilizes a multidisciplinary experimental framework integrating in vivo models of viral lung infection, primary lung epithelial culture systems (including alveolospheres and air–liquid interface models), and analyses of human specimens. Experimental approaches include high-dimensional flow cytometry, advanced imaging, bulk and single-cell transcriptomics, spatial transcriptomics, and complementary molecular and biochemical techniques. The successful candidate will engage in clinically relevant, hypothesis-driven studies to define how host responses to viral infection regulate epithelial regeneration, inflammatory programs, and long-term alterations in lung structure and function. This position is ideally suited for individuals seeking rigorous training in translational pulmonary biology, viral immunopathogenesis, and mechanisms of tissue repair, and will provide strong preparation for advanced scientific or physician–scientist career paths.

Requirements

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 a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
Minimum of 1 year of experience working with diverse groups of people.
Working knowledge of computers, ability to troubleshoot, work independently, and function as a team member is essential. Therefore, experience in regular interaction with outside groups is highly desirable.
Excellent command of the English language and the ability to communicate effectively.
Strong organizational skills including the ability to establish priorities, react promptly to a large variety of requests, and the ability to keep the workplace clean and organized.

Responsibilities

Support scientific research, analysis, and experimentation by performing various laboratory tasks.
Following protocols, designs and sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improved processes, validity and accuracy.
Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting and entering data.
Manipulates, interprest and/or presents results.
Prepares charts and graphs for presentations and publications.
Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts and publications.
Tracks and summarizes lab supply expenses.
Verifies accuracy of invoices.
Orders and maintains inventory of reagent, mice and/or lab supplies.
Calibrate and validate laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and precision in testing.
Record and analyze data and report findings to senior laboratory staff.
Maintain an organized and well-stocked laboratory by managing supplies, reagents, and equipment inventory.
Place orders for necessary materials.
Other job functions as assigned.

Benefits

For full time and part time employees who work 20 or more hours per week we offer a generous benefits package that includes:
Medical, dental and vision insurance
Employer paid group term life and disability
Employer contribution toward Health Savings Account
Flexible Spending Accounts
Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave
403(b) with a 5% employer match
Various voluntary benefits: Supplemental Life, AD&D and Disability
Critical Illness, Accident and Hospital Indemnity coverage
Tuition assistance
Student loan servicing and support
Adoption benefits
Backup Childcare and Eldercare
Employee Assistance Program, and other specialized behavioral health services and resources for employees and family members
Discount on services at Lurie Children’s facilities
Discount purchasing program