Research Assistant

Department

BSD MED - Endocrinology - Salas-Lucia Research Staff

About the Department

The Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism is consistently recognized as one of the finest endocrinology centers in the U.S. The University of Chicago’s endocrinology program has a reputation for progressive therapies and leading-edge research.

Job Summary

The University of Chicago’s Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, in the Biological Sciences Division, is seeking a Research Assistant to join a dynamic neuroendocrinology lab. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining laboratory organization and supporting experimental workflows under the direction of the Principal Investigator.

Primary responsibilities include small animal husbandry and colony maintenance, as well as assisting with molecular and cellular techniques such as cell culture, fluorescent imaging, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, and immunohistochemistry. The role also involves in vivo procedures such as mouse perfusion and brain sectioning.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a high degree of independence, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in gaining hands-on research experience in neuroscience, endocrinology, and molecular biology.

Responsibilities

• Assists scientific research projects.
• Assists with the collection, analysis, and maintenance of data and/or specimens, conducts literature reviews, and supports the preparation of reports, manuscripts, and related documentation.
• Sets up and performs experiments in collaboration with other lab members under the direction of the principal investigator.
• This job provides technical and administrative support in a laboratory environment performing basic laboratory techniques, research and analysis under direction.
• Provides routine or standardized laboratory duties by collecting data in support of research projects under direct supervision.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

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 Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in or biomedical research, such as neuroscience, molecular biology, biochemistry, endocrinology, or immunology.

Experience:

• Background in mouse husbandry and experimentation, DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, and immunohistochemistry.
• Background obtaining microscopy images.
• Familiarity working with mice models.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Knowledge in relevant scientific fields, such as neuroscience or neuroendocrinology.
• Knowledge and experience in research techniques or methods, including DNA, RNA, and protein isolation.

Preferred Competencies

• Analytical skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Organizational skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Work independently.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)

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

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

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FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

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Pay Range

$19.23 - $26.44

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