Research Technologist 2

Department: MED-Pathology
Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary:

The Chen laboratory is a new group that researches how to deploy the immune system to fight cancer. We are located in downtown Chicago (Streeterville) in the Northwestern University Center for Human Immunobiology and belong to the Department of Pathology.

We seek a lab technician (Research Technologist 2) with a degree in biology, data science, or related fields. Ideal candidates are interested in working at the interface of research and clinical medicine, such as recent college graduates considering MD and/or PhD training.

In recent years, immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment, though only a subset of patients respond. With the aim of developing new therapies, we study how the immune response is organized in cancer. To do this, we employ cutting-edge genomic technologies and unbiased approaches to examine human tumors. Examples of such technologies include novel ultrahigh-plex RNA imaging microscopy for spatial biology and single cell RNA sequencing. In order to rigorously test hypotheses, we also employ experimental in vitro and in vivo systems. For more information, please see our most recent studies (Cell PMID: 34450029; Nature Medicine PMID: 36702949; Nature Immunology PMID: 38503922).

Specific Responsibilities:

• As critical members of the team, technicians contribute both intellectually and experimentally at the bench and in data analysis. Experimental Research Design, conduct, and analyze experiments under supervision of Dr. Chen and team. Laboratory Management. Oversee lab inventory and manage supply orders. Regulatory Compliance Coordinate with regulatory offices to ensure compliance with animal, biological, and chemical safety regulations.

Preferred Position Requirements:

• Candidates must have at minimum a college degree in a STEM field (e.g. biology or computer science) and wet lab or data science experience. Additionally, because we employ a team-based, interdisciplinary approach, applicants must have excellent communication skills and work well with others. Cancer biology, immunology, and informatics are a plus, but can be learned on the job. The initial term of employment is 1 year, with the goal of renewal based on performance for an anticipated total duration of employment of 2-3 years.

Opportunities for Advancement:

• We prioritize mentorship and seek to prepare our trainees for successful careers in biomedical research and medicine. Dr. Chen has MD/PhD training (Yale University) and thus has experience navigating the graduate school application process. He has mentored technicians admitted to top MD programs (UPenn and Yale).

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.89 -$24.86 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

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 strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for people who can obtain them as a critical tool for minimizing severe illness. More information can be found on the COVID-19 and Campus Updates webpage.

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.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.

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