Staff Scientist

Department

PSD James Franck Institute: Murugan Group

About the Department

The James Franck Institute (JFI) is the premier institute in the US for research at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and materials science. The research spans condensed matter physics, physical chemistry, synthetic materials chemistry, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, geophysics, and biophysics. As one of the five interdisciplinary institutes of the Physical Sciences Division, it provides a stimulating environment for scientists of different disciplines to interact and aid each other's research and facilitates collaborations between pre- and postdoctoral researchers and mentors from different academic backgrounds. The intellectual environment in the Institute is further enriched by opportunities to interact with senior scientists, senior research associates, research scientists, and visiting scholars. An active colloquium and seminar series, as well as a more informal weekly bag lunch, stimulates information exchange. In an age where much cutting-edge research lies at the boundaries between traditional disciplines, the James Franck Institute fosters creative interdisciplinary work at the forefront of science.

Job Summary

The laboratory of Arvind Murugan at the University of Chicago is seeking a Staff Scientist to join our team. We are a biological physics lab in the physics department and James Franck Institute, investigating the evolution of complex molecular machines using directed molecular evolution and high-throughput sequencing techniques together with computational and theoretical analysis. Our lab works primarily with bacteriophages, E. coli and yeast. We seek a Staff Scientist to conduct experiments on molecular evolution under the supervision and guidance of the Principal Investigator, including assisting in the development and troubleshooting of new laboratory techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop new high-throughput experimental assays.
• Conduct experiments on molecular evolution using these assays.
• Carry out computational analyses of experimental data, including modern ML-based methods.
• Lead the writing of scientific manuscripts.
• Mentor graduate students on both their experimental and theoretical projects.
• Collaborate with the lab's Staff Scientist to build a new research direction in the lab.
• Organize a talk series featuring early-career researchers across the James Franck Institute and the Center for Living Systems.
• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data. Participates in the promotion of a research project.
• May present work at scientific meetings.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Competencies

• High organizational skills.
• Attention to detail.
• High problem-solving skills.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work with a team.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)
• References (preferred)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$75,000.00 - $81,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

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