Research Technologist

Department

BSD HGD - Z. Zhang Lab

About the Department

The Department of Human Genetics is the home within the Division of Biological Sciences for the study of basic principles of genetics and genomics as applied to human evolution, health, and disease. We provide broad training in field work, experimental genetics and genomics, statistical and population genetics, bioinformatics, and clinical molecular genetics. Our faculty bridge between basic and clinical research, and perform studies in people as well as in animal and cell models, and train students for careers in academia, industry, and medicine. The highly focused and integrated research in HG has resulted in extensive networks of collaboration among our faculty, as well as with faculty in other departments and divisions of the university.

Science, including genetics, plays a central role in many crucial issues of our time. We are committed to generating rigorous scientific knowledge, training future scientists, and preparing our students to be well-informed citizens in a democratic society. We have an unwavering commitment to diversity, inclusion, free expression, and open discourse. These values are at the core of our roles as scientists, as teachers, and as citizens of a free society.

Job Summary

The NeuroEpigenomics lab of Dr. Zhuzhu Zhang at the University of Chicago is looking for a highly motivated research technician who is interested in genomics and neurobiology. Zhang lab (https://zhanglab.odoo.com/) studies gene regulatory mechanisms during postnatal brain development as well as in psychiatric disorders such as addiction. This full-time research technician position will support molecular biology and genomics experiments including single-cell genomics studies, as well as mouse handling and surgical procedures. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge genomics and neuroscience research. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques and experience with next-generation sequencing are highly regarded.

Responsibilities

• Perform genomics experiments, including molecular cloning, sample preparation and library construction for bulk and single-cell transcriptomics and epigenomics sequencing.

• Maintain detailed lab records and contribute to lab organization and protocol development.

• Assist with tissue culture, mouse surgery, and tissue dissection as needed.

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field. (Required)

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 biology, neuroscience, or a related field. Applicants with MS or PhD degrees are welcome, responsibilities and projects will be tailored accordingly.

Experience:

• Previous experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, or genomics.

• Interest in neuroscience, genomics, and gene regulation.

• Experience with computational analysis is strongly preferred.

• Experience with tissue culture and cellular model is strongly preferred.

• Experience with mouse handling and procedures is strongly preferred.

Preferred Competencies

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Strong organizational skills, reliability, and attention to detail.

Working Conditions

• Research Lab.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)

• Cover Letter (required)

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

40

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

$50,000.00 - $70,000.00

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 Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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