Research Analyst

Department BSD NEU - Research About the Department The Zhou Lab in the Department of Neurology at the University of Chicago investigates how somatic mosaicism and age-associated mutagenesis drive selective vulnerability in the aging human brain. We focus on major neurodegenerative disorders, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), and Alzheimers Disease (AD). The lab utilizes advanced genomic technologies including high-depth duplex sequencing and targeted long-read sequencing, to identify pathogenic mutations and repeat expansions in human brain tissue. Job Summary The Research Analyst will provide technical and analytical support for research on somatic mosaicism in brain aging and neurodegeneration. Under the guidance of the PI, the candidate will perform molecular and genomic analyses to determine how rare genetic variants in subsets of brain cells initiate focal neurodegeneration and influence its spread. Responsibilities Perform molecular genetics assays, specifically supporting single-cell sequencing and long-read sequencing library preparation. Perform biochemical, cell culture, and animal experiments to elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying mutagenesis. Conduct targeted literature reviews on somatic repeat expansions and neurogenetics; assist with the preparation of scientific manuscripts and grant applications. Interact with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the PI. Maintain lab databases for molecular and omics data and perform other related work 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. Performs other related work as needed. Minimum Qualifications Education: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree 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 Education: Bachelor's degree. Experience: Basic knowledge or hands-on experience with genomic/omics data analysis. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, Western Blotting) and experience with or willingness to learn library preparation for NGS. Preferred Competencies Strong organizational skills for maintaining accurate experimental records and curating large datasets. Effective communication skills for presenting data and collaborating within a research team. 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 Salary FLSA Status Exempt Pay Range $50,000.00 - $70,000.00 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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