Department: WCAS Molecular Biosciences
Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary:

Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). May complete mathematical calculations, and/or computer tasks and/or assist in judging validity of data. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices.

The Morimoto laboratory at Northwestern University, Department of Molecular Biosciences, Evanston, IL is seeking a highly qualified post-graduate undergraduate student to join our research team in a Research Technologist I position (minimum 2 year desired). Our lab uses mammalian cell culture assays to study proteostasis taking multidisciplinary approaches including molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and chemical biology to explore the mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative disease. This position includes utilizing mammalian cell culture for reprogramming human fibroblasts into neurons. The task may require a significant time investment, and it is essential for the candidate to demonstrate accountability in its execution.

This unique opportunity would involve the candidate working closely with a postdoctoral fellow to carry forward research that would contribute toward both presentations and publications. We are looking for someone who could commit to a minimum of 2 years and are considering applying to graduate school programs. Experience with cell culture is highly preferred. The candidate should also have advanced experience in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, genetics and/or genomics-centered methodologies, through prior lab research experience as well as undergraduate coursework. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, goal-oriented, able to work both independently and in teams, and will possess excellent organizational, communication, and analytical skills. Applicant must be competent to carefully follow instructions, extremely reliable and able to conduct and troubleshoot experiments, keep experimental records and analyze data.

Preferred qualifications: experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular biological techniques such as electrophoresis (DNA gel and SDS PAGE), Western, and PCR. Able to prepare and maintain laboratory stock reagents and supplies and maintain excellent organizational skills. This will be a 1-year renewable position based upon performance and funding availability. This position is a FULL-TIME position at 40.0 hours per week and works on-site.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.31 - $27.16 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Following protocols, designs, sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
• Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy.
• Using a fully functioning level of skill, completes the following activities

Molecular Biology:

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression,
• SDS/PAGE and Western blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, and sequencing of DNA, buffer and stock solution preparation,

Other (please specify):

• culturing and freezing; mammalian cells

Administration

• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
• Manipulates, interprets &/or presents results.
• Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.

Finance

• Tracks & summarizes lab supply expenses.
• Verifies accuracy of invoices.
• Orders &/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice &/or lab supplies.

Supervises

• Trains students.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 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 Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Advanced experience in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, genetics and/or genomics-centered methodologies, through focused prior lab research experience as well as undergraduate coursework.
• Highly motivated, goal-oriented.
• Able to work both independently and in teams.
• Possess excellent organizational skills.
• Possess excellent analytical skills.
• Ability to read/comprehend scientific literature.
• Competent to independently design, plan, conduct and troubleshoot experiments

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• Master's degree or 3-5 years of research experiences
• Experience with molecular biological techniques such as electrophresis (DNA gel and SDS PAGE), Western, and PCR. Able to prepare and maintain laboratory stock reagents and supplies, and maintain excellent organizational skills.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Able to analyze data.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.31 to $27.16 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for people who can obtain them as a critical tool for minimizing severe illness. More information can be found on the COVID-19 and Campus Updates webpage.

The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.

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