Lab Research Assistant 2-29148

Location: Chicago, Illinois Business Unit: Rush Medical Center Hospital: Rush University Medical Center Department: Orthopedic Surgery-Res Adm Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0) Shift: Shift 1 Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 4:00:00 PM) Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits). Pay Range: $21.61 - $30.53 per hour Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case. Job Summary The Lab Research Assistant 2 performs laboratory procedures with limited supervision and supports complex scientific studies through specimen processing, equipment operation, and data documentation. The Lab Research Assistant 2 applies technical judgment to troubleshoot procedures, interpret results, and assist in protocol refinement. This position contributes to maintaining lab efficiency, training junior staff, and supporting high-quality research outputs. Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures. Required Job Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalentExperience: 2 year of laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment OR Experience (in Lieu Of a Degree) 3 years of laboratory experience, with at least one (1) year involves direct execution of laboratory tests or support of active research studies Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programsAdvanced knowledge of standard experimental designStrong analytic skillsProficient knowledge of best practice laboratory practice and principles including their applicationAttention to detail and accuracyOrganizes responsibilities to meet protocol deadlines; adjusts task flow to maintain lab productivity and readinessManages multiple tasks with attention to accuracy and sequencing; prioritizes responsibilities to meet study timelinesPrior experience contributing to protocol development, scientific writing, or manuscript preparationExperience working independently in regulated or quality-controlled laboratory environmentsStrong oral and written communicationProficiency using laboratory data systems such as REDCap, Excel, GraphPad Prism, or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry, organization, and basic analysis Preferred Job Qualifications Education: Master’s degree in biological or chemical science with applied laboratory coursework Experience: 2+ years laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environmentPrior supervisory / mentoring / advising experience Physical Demands Requires effective use of fine motor skills for pipetting, microscopy, and data entry tasksRequires good vision and manual dexterity to accurately handle lab instruments, record data, and operate computerized systemsFrequently stands or walks during labs and may occasionally lift or carry items (e.g., reagent trays, small sample containers) up to 25 lbsMust work safely in environments containing chemicals, biological samples, or equipment with minimal physical strain Job Responsibilities Perform complex laboratory procedures with limited supervision; follow protocol objectives and adjust technique based on study conditions.Process biological specimens such as fluids, tissues, or cell lines using manual and automated techniques according to study-specific requirements.Analyze test results, identify patterns or anomalies, and summarize findings for investigators or team leads.Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated and computerized lab instruments; document performance and escalate unresolved issues.Follow biosafety standards and chemical hygiene protocols; train junior staff or students on lab techniques, safety practices, and equipment use.Record procedures, equipment settings, and results accurately in lab notebooks or databases; share updates during team meetings.Recommend adjustments to protocols based on observations; contribute to protocol revisions and testing of updated methods.Apply and adapt laboratory techniques using prior knowledge and protocol guidelines; adjust procedures based on sample conditions.Document results and propose improvements to increase reliability, accuracy, or efficiency of lab methods.Assign tasks to Lab Assistant 1s or trainees as needed; provide hands-on support and confirm task completion.Create data visualizations, tables, and figures to support lab reports, presentations, or scientific manuscripts.Conduct literature reviews to inform experimental design or support protocol updates; summarize findings for review by investigators.Perform other related duties as assigned to support daily research operations. Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.