Research Technologist 2 – Akhtar Lab – Neuroscience Lab, Neurology, Neuroscientist

Chicago, IL (Hybrid)     ·      Full time

About the job

Department: MED-Neurology

Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary

• This is a wet lab position.

Conducts experimental neurologicial research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). May complete mathematical calculations, and/or computer tasks and/or assist in judging validity of data. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices.

This position will support Dr. Rizwan Akhtar’s research program in α-synuclein biomarkers for Parkinson disease. The candidate will be principally supervised by Dr. Akhtar. The primary duties of this position will be to assist in the development of laboratory methods to measure forms of α-synuclein and assess their toxicity in human fluid samples. The candidate will also assist in the development and validation of cell-based models of α-synuclein toxicity. The candidate will be expected to participate in lab and department scholarly activities including journal clubs and internal data presentations. This position will provide a strong foundation for individuals contemplating continued training in medical or graduate school. This position requires a practical understanding of a limited number of standard scientific techniques.

Please note that only applications including a cover letter/personal statement will be considered. This a 12-month term position with option for renewal contingent on funding availability

Please Note

• Working conditions are office / computer room and laboratory environment
• Exposure to chemicals and biological specimens
• Safety training is required and provided
• Typically sitting at a desk or table or laboratory bench

Specific Responsibilities

• Follows protocols and designs, sets-up, and conducts basic laboratory experiments
• Analyzes and troubleshoots experimental protocols
• Analyzes data obtained from individual experiments, recommends alternatives, and makes suggestions to improve processes, validity and / or accuracy
• Has the following laboratory skills, or is willing to be trained on the following laboratory skills:
  • Molecular Biology:
    • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression Western blotting
    • PCR, RT-PCR
    • Plasmid preparation
    • Cloning, mapping, and sequencing of DNA
    • Recombinant virus production and purification
  • Cellular Biology:
    • Cell culture
    • Cellular functional studies
    • Transfection and transduction
  • Histology:
    • Cell culture fixation / processing
    • Immunocytochemistry
    • Microscopy
  • Immunology:
    • Flow cytometry
    • ELISA, Elispot assay
    • Antibody production and purification
• Catalog, aliquot, and store de-identified human biofluid samples
• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
• Manipulates, interprets &/or presents preliminary data results and statistical analysis
• Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.

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.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrated laboratory experience, minimum of two years;
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols;
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations;
• Attention to detail and accurate record keeping;
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Manual dexterity

Preferred Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or related field
• Scientific writing skills and computer literacy (e.g. Microsoft Office software) is preferred.
• Candidates must have excellent attention to detail and be capable of accurate record keeping, demonstrate excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, and possess the ability to work in a professional team environment

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Some experience in basic molecular biology techniques including pipetting and / or cell culture.

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.

Northwestern requires all staff and faculty to be vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to limited exceptions. For more information, please visit our COVID-19 and Campus Updates website.

The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.

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