Research Technical Assistant

Department BSD MGC - Mukherjee Lab About the Department The Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology (MGCB) is an innovative interdisciplinary community of scientists committed to investigating molecular aspects of biological phenomena that operate on a cellular scale. We invite you to explore our programs and get to know us better, https://mgcb.uchicago.edu. The Mukherjee Lab uses genetic, molecular biology and biochemical approaches in bacteria to investigate how collective behaviors arise and shape the development of bacterial communities. Specifically, we aim to understand how bacteria decode and integrate self-generated and environmentally-derived stimuli to control transitions between individual and collective behaviors. More information on the lab can be found at: https://sampritimukherjeelab.uchicago.edu/. Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Technical Assistant to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research projects by generating preliminary data, preparing figures, and assisting with molecular biology, biochemistry, and microbiology experiments. This position also involves maintaining and overseeing shared laboratory equipmentincluding a plate reader, imager, and microscopesand providing training and support to other researchers in their use. The ideal candidate will work both independently and collaboratively under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills, and show enthusiasm for learning new techniques and advancing scientific discovery. Responsibilities 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. Collects and enters data. Assists in analysis of data and with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents. Complies with institution, state and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates. 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: --- Preferred Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biochemistry, or related field. Experience: Knowledge of standard molecular biology research techniques. Familiarity with standard laboratory equipment. Preferred Competencies Analytical skills. Attention to detail. Organizational skills. Verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Knowledge of Microsoft Office. Working Conditions Moderate physical activity which includes reaching for materials, carrying materials, safe handling and manipulation of chemicals and biological materials according to approved protocols, writing, computer use, standing at the bench, and bending at the waist/crouching to access certain pieces of equipment. Requires the ability to stand for long periods of time, very good manual dexterity and the ability to perform fine motor tasks. Weekend/Evening hours: As needed based on work. Application Documents Resume (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 FLSA Status Non-Exempt Pay Range $19.23 - $26.44 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. 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. The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. The University of Chicago is an urban research university that has driven new ways of thinking since 1890. Our commitment to free and open inquiry draws inspired scholars to our global campuses, where ideas are born that challenge and change the world. We empower individuals to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of original ideas. Students in the College develop critical, analytic, and writing skills in our rigorous, interdisciplinary core curriculum. Through graduate programs, students test their ideas with UChicago scholars, and become the next generation of leaders in academia, industry, nonprofits, and government. To learn more about the university click here http://www.uchicago.edu/