Lab Research Assistant 3 - Orthopedic Surgery-28292

About the role

The Lab Research Assistant 3 independently performs specialized laboratory procedures and oversees technical workflows to support high-quality scientific research. This position contributes to data generation, documentation integrity, and scientific deliverables such as protocol development and manuscript preparation.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform specialized or multi-step laboratory procedures aligned with research protocols; adjust experimental conditions based on sample variability or instrument response
• Process, label, and track specimens through complex workflows; troubleshoot specimen quality issues and escalate study concerns to the investigator
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot advanced laboratory instruments and robotic systems; train others on proper use and coordinate service visits as needed
• Lead the refinement and implementation of laboratory protocols; evaluate new methods, document outcomes, and share findings with the research team
• Record detailed procedures and results in electronic systems or lab notebooks; review documentation from junior staff to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Analyze experimental results across multiple time points or sample groups; interpret findings in relation to study aims and contribute summaries for team review
• Supervise Lab Research Assistant 1 and 2 staff in day-to-day lab operations; assign tasks, monitor timelines, and provide technical guidance or corrective feedback
• Present findings, protocol updates, or technical challenges during lab meetings; contribute to workflow planning and implementation of efficiency improvements
• Collaborate with external labs, shared resource cores, or clinical teams to coordinate protocols, timelines, and data transfer logistics
• Oversee laboratory supply inventory and vendor coordination; ensure availability of specialty materials, resolve order issues, and track purchasing trends
• Monitor lab-wide safety adherence; deliver onboarding or refresher safety training for students, volunteers, or new hires
• Draft or revise methods sections for internal protocols or scientific manuscripts; generate visuals and respond to data presentation feedback from PIs or collaborators
• Translate findings from literature into improved lab practices or study designs; present relevant updates during team discussions
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support daily research operations

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Experience: 3 years of laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment OR Experience (in lieu of a degree): 4 years of progressive laboratory experience, with at least two (2) years involves direct execution of laboratory tests or support of active research studies
• Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: Expert knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs; Expert knowledge of standard experimental design; Strong analytic skills; Proficient knowledge of best practice laboratory practice and principles including their application; Strong attention to detail and accuracy; Organizes responsibilities to meet protocol deadlines; Adjusts task flow to maintain lab productivity and readiness; Manages multiple tasks with attention to accuracy and sequencing; Prioritizes responsibilities to meet study timelines; Demonstrated experience contributing to protocol development, scientific writing, or manuscript preparation; Experience working independently in regulated or quality-controlled laboratory environments; Strong oral and written communication; Proficiency using laboratory data systems such as REDCap, Excel, GraphPad Prism, or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry, organization, and basic analysis

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in biological or chemical science with applied laboratory coursework
• Experience: 3 years of laboratory exposure in an academic, healthcare, or research environment; 1+ years supervisory / mentoring / advising experience

Skills

• Expert knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs
• Expert knowledge of standard experimental design
• Strong analytic skills
• Proficient knowledge of best practice laboratory practice and principles including their application
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Organizes responsibilities to meet protocol deadlines; Adjusts task flow to maintain lab productivity and readiness; Manages multiple tasks with attention to accuracy and sequencing; Prioritizes responsibilities to meet study timelines
• Demonstrated experience contributing to protocol development, scientific writing, or manuscript preparation
• Experience working independently in regulated or quality-controlled laboratory environments
• Strong oral and written communication
• Proficiency using laboratory data systems such as REDCap, Excel, GraphPad Prism, or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry, organization, and basic analysis

Benefits

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits. Learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay

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.

Schedule

Shift 1