Research Technologist- Organ and Vasculature Formation

Salary/Grade: NEX

Job Summary

Participates in design and execution of research lab projects. Conducts experimental tests and procedures and processes and analyzes data. Reviews and revises existing research methodologies and may develop new methodologies, mathematical and/or computer models for predicting data. May ensure overall lab compliance with all associated rules and regulations.

This person will work in Dr. Guillermo Oliver’s Lab at the new SQI building in the Feinberg School of Medicine. The team is looking for an individual interested in joining a vibrant group working in different aspects of organ and vasculature formation in normal and pathological conditions using mouse models. The incumbent will need experience in molecular biology (performing DNA isolation, PCR) and working with mice.

Specific Responsibilities

• Following overall research objectives, independently designs, plans, conducts and troubleshoots experiments.
• Evaluates protocols and data obtained from groups of experiments and recommends changes to processes, procedures and techniques to improve quality and validity of results based upon overall project objectives.
• Using an advanced level of skill, completes the following activities.

Molecular Biology

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
• Southern, Northern, Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
• Recombinant virus production and purification

Histology

• Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
• Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy

Animal

• Husbandry
• Breeding and screening transgenic mice
• Dissections
• Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
• Database management of colony

Finance

• Negotiates purchases with vendors.
• Maintains and updates portions of grant budgets.
• Tracks and summarizes lab supply expenses.
• Verifies accuracy of invoices.
• Orders and/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice and/or lab supplies.

Miscellaneous

• Performs other 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 and 3 years’ lab/bench or other relevant experience required; OR
• Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master’s or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 1 year lab/bench or other relevant experience.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Action oriented – Willing or likely to take practical action to deal with a problem or situation.
• Coachability – Receptive to feedback, willing to learn, embracing continuous improvement.
• Collaboration – Facilitates open and effective communication, cooperation and teamwork within and outside of one’s own team.
• Collegiality – Helpful, respectful, approachable; builds strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
• Initiative – Exhibits energy and desire to achieve; sets ambitious goals and acts decisively; takes action that no one has requested to improve or enhance job results and avoid problems.
• Meets deadlines – Displays consistency and success in adhering to deadlines.
• Multi-tasking – Demonstrates ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Organization – Plans, organizes and schedules in an efficient, productive manner; anticipates contingencies and pays attention to detail.

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.

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