Research Technician
The University of Chicago

Department

PSD Chemistry: Faculty Support

About the Department

The University of Chicago's Chemistry Department is renowned for its excellence in research, teaching, and fostering an environment that nurtures scientific curiosity and discovery. Our faculty members are leaders in their respective fields, driving cutting-edge research across diverse areas of chemistry. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries and inspire the next generation of chemists.

Job Summary

The Dickinson lab works in complementary areas of basic and applied biology with the overarching theme being the creation of functional molecules that lead to biological breakthroughs. The functional molecules we are creating vary in terms of size (small molecules to proteins to engineered organisms) and discovery method (rational design to unbiased evolution). In all cases, our goal is to leverage new chemical and molecular technologies to better understand and treat human disease.

The lab is seeking an experienced Research Technician who is well-versed in handling and performing research using directed evolution, synthetic biology, and bioengineering to reprogram biomolecular interactions. This role requires a demonstrated history in collaborative research, effective communication, ability to follow standard protocols, and aptitude for troubleshooting. The ideal candidate should value continuous learning, building networks, and upholding the university's academic excellence to make meaningful contributions to advanced research pursuits.

The job performs routine assignments related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Assists in drafting presentations, articles, reports, and manuscripts based on research findings.

Responsibilities

• Performs synthetic biology experiments, including Phage-based screens, biochemical assays, high-throughput sequencing, mammalian cell culture assays, and computational structural predictions using AI-based tools.
  
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens.
  
• Assists with building and standardizing protocols, as needed.
  
• Builds competence in relevant research techniques or methods.
  
• Up to date on background scientific literature regarding their projects.
  
• Provides technical and administrative support for a research project.
  
• Collects and enters data. Assists in analyzing data. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts, and other documents.
  
• Assists with the installation, 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 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 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
---
Certifications:

---

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master's degree in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, or related field.
  

Experience:

• Performing PACE studies or other high-throughput screening approaches.
  
• Experience with techniques in molecular biology is a plus.
  

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• Experience with lab-directed evolution (screening, PACE).
  
• Advanced understanding of molecular biology, including cloning, analyzing large sequencing data sets, etc.
  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  

Preferred Competencies

• Knowledge in relevant scientific field.
  
• Knowledge of research techniques or methods relevant to the lab (e.g., PACE, molecular biology, etc.).
  
• Strong organizational skills.
  
• Detail-oriented, able to take instructions and execute assignments.
  
• Able to work independently, seeking clarification and guidance where needed.
  
• Demonstrate critical thinking and an aptitude for continuous learning; this position offers the opportunity to strengthen laboratory and research skills.
  
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to adapt.
  
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to ask questions and provide updates on work progress clearly and with sufficient technical detail.
  

Application Documents:

• Resume (required)
  
• Cover Letter (preferred)
  
• References (preferred)
  

When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Pay Frequency

Biweekly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, 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.

Staff 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.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

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.

---