Research Technologist II

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago • Chicago, IL

6d

About The Position

Dr. Boyne’s Lab investigates how infections and inflammation develop in the lungs, with a particular focus on host microbial interactions that shape the airway microbiome in cystic fibrosis (CF). Using airway epithelial cell models, bacterial cultures, and patient-derived samples such as exhaled breath condensate and sputum, the lab works to uncover mechanisms that drive disease and identify potential therapeutic targets. In this role, the Research Technologist II will support ongoing studies by performing a variety of molecular, cellular, and microbiological experiments. Responsibilities include maintaining airway epithelial cell cultures, conducting assays such as transfection, bacterial adherence and internalization, PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence, and assisting with data analysis and troubleshooting. Experience with cell culture and confocal microscopy preferred. The position also involves preparing figures for presentations and publications, performing literature searches, contributing to manuscripts and grant materials, and helping manage lab supplies and inventory. Future responsibilities may include routine mouse work related to monitoring, breeding, and tissue processing.

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.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with cell culture and confocal microscopy preferred.

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level