Research Technologist 2/3

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
• Cellular Biology:
• Cell culture, cell isolation
• Functional studies
• Transfection
• Histology:
• Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
• Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy
• Immunology:
• Flow cytometry
• ELISA, Elispot assay
• Cytokine assay
• Antibody production and purification
• Animal:
• Husbandry
• Breeding and screening transgenic mice
• Dissections
• Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
• Database management of colony
• Administration
• Observes experiments, collects, records, summarizes, analyzes and interprets research data.
• Collates relevant mathematical results.
• Prepares complex tables reflecting relationships of multiple tests.
• Draws scientific conclusions.
• Writes portions of grant applications.
• Co-authors scientific papers.
• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
• Manipulates, interprets &/or presents results.
• Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.
• 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.
• Supervision
• Trains and directs other lab EEs and/or students in research techniques and procedures.
• 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 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.
• 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.

Minimum Competencies

• Demonstrated laboratory experience;
• 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.

Benefits

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html.

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.