Research Professional

Department BSD HGD - Ober Lab About the Department The central intellectual theme of our department is to understand the roles of genetics and epigenetics in patterning phenotypic variation in natural populations and in human evolution, health, and disease. We bring together faculty and students with diverse perspectives and expertise who are united by a shared passion for understanding genetic variation and drawing out the insights it can provide on gene regulatory mechanisms, evolutionary history, and health outcomes, across developmental stages and environmental contexts. We foster collaborative research that integrates experimental discoveries with statistical modeling and bridges the gap between basic and translational research to ultimately inform strategies for precision medicine. Job Summary Research in the Ober Lab focuses on understanding the role of genetic variation and environmental exposures in shaping risk for asthma and allergic diseases, with the goal of identifying molecular targets for treatment or early intervention. To this end, we integrate genetic studies with gene expression and epigenetic marks (e.g., DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility) in cells that are relevant to asthma and allergy. Our studies are primarily conducted in birth cohorts of children who are deeply characterized with respect to their environmental exposures and clinical outcomes in early life and childhood, or in cross-sectional cohorts recruited for specific studies. This position will engage in laboratory research activities to generate molecular data as well as in the analysis and interpretation of those data. Responsibilities Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data. Participates in the promotion of a research project. Participates in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-authors/authors scientific research manuscripts. Provides peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts. Collaborates on development of new research projects with academic and community-based organizations. 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: --- Preferred Qualifications Experience: Bench experience with molecular genetic tools (e.g., RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, DNA methylation studies) and with long read sequencing platforms. At least one peer-reviewed publication in a related field. Preferred Competencies Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to maintain calm and courteous demeanor and to work productively despite heavy workload, competing priorities, complex problems, and tight deadlines. Excellent problem-solving skills required. Ability to use appropriate resources to resolve an issue. Ability to follow an issue through to resolution. Considerable skill in working both independently and as a team member. Ability to take initiative and organize and complete projects with minimal supervision. Working Conditions Research Lab setting. Application Documents Resume/CV (required) Cover letter (required) Names and contact information for 3 references (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 FLSA Status Exempt Pay Range $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 The included pay rate or range represents the Universitys 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. 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