Research Specialist 1

Department
 

BSD MGC - Executive Administrator: Mukherjee Lab

About the Department
 

The Mukherjee Lab seeks a Research Specialist 1 to join our team. We use 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/. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Job Summary
 

We are looking for candidates interested in gaining experience in molecular biology and microbiology techniques. This position will involve both research and general lab duties. A successful candidate will work independently under the supervision of the principal investigator, and in collaboration with a team of scientists, have great communication skills, pay attention to detail, be well-organized and meticulously follow instructions, and show eagerness to learn new skills and grow as a researcher. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Responsibilities

• 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).

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.

Experience:

• Prior experience with molecular cloning, bacterial genetics and cell biology and microscopy are all valuable but not essential.

Preferred Competencies

• Knowledge of standard research techniques relevant to microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology.

• Familiarity with standard laboratory equipment and common data analysis software.

• Analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

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 are occasionally needed.

Application Documents

• Resume or CV (Required) 

• Cover Letter (Required)

• List of 2 references (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

FLSA Status
 

Non-Exempt

Pay Frequency
 

Biweekly

Scheduled Weekly Hours
 

40

Benefits Eligible
 

Yes

Drug Test Required
 

No

Health Screen Required
 

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Posting Statement
 

Employees must comply with the University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements. More information about the requirements can be found on the University of Chicago Vaccination GoForward .
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected 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.

 

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