Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago provides superior pediatric care in a setting that offers the latest benefits and innovations in medical technology, research and family-friendly design. As the largest pediatric provider in the region with a 140-year legacy of excellence, kids and their families are at the center of all we do. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is ranked in all 10 specialties by the U.S. News & World Report. Location Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center Job Description Research in the Akhtar Laboratory is focused on understanding how viruses infect and cause pathogenesis in the pediatric brain. The approach that the researchers take is to identify clinical viral isolates associated with pediatric infection and poor neurologic outcomes, and bring these isolates back to the lab to assess the mechanism by which this occurs. They use viral whole genome sequencing, human and murine neuronal in vitro models, and murine in vivo models, as well as reverse genetics to understand clinical viral virulence factors. The current focus of the lab is to determine virulence factors contributing to neonatal herpes simplex virus encephalitis. The Research Technologist II will perform lab work in the Host-Microbial Interactions, Inflammation, and Immunity Neighborhood. The lab investigates the airway microbiome and infection in cystic fibrosis with an emphasis on the impact of disrupted intracellular signaling and pH. Conducts experimental research lab work. Assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). Completes mathematical calculations, &/or computer tasks &/or assists in judging validity of data. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, good clinical & laboratory practices. Job Responsibilities: Following protocols, designs, sets-up, and conducts basic experiments (including transfection, bacterial culture, bacterial adherence and internalization assays, western blotting, PCR, immunofluorescence, DNA isolation). Maintains and propagates airway epithelial cells in culture, including primary cells grown at the air-liquid interface. Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy. Future routine mouse work monitoring, breeding, tissue collection and processing, and procedures. Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting and entering data. Manipulates, interprets and/or presents results. Prepares charts and graphs for presentations and publications. Performs scientific literature searches in support of research. Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts and publications. Tracks and summarizes lab supply expenses. Verifies accuracy of invoices. Orders and maintains inventory of reagent, mice and/or lab supplies. Other job functions as assigned. Education and Experience: 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 of 1 year of experience working with diverse groups of people. Working knowledge of computers, ability to troubleshoot, work independently, and function as a team member is essential. Therefore, experience in regular interaction with outside groups is highly desirable. Excellent command of the English language and the ability to communicate effectively. Strong organizational skills including the ability to establish priorities, react promptly to a large variety of requests, and the ability to keep the workplace clean and organized. Education Bachelor's Degree: Biomedical Science (Required) Benefit Statement For full time and part time employees who work 20 or more hours per week we offer a generous benefits package that includes: Medical, dental and vision insurance Employer paid group term life and disability Employer contribution toward Health Savings Account Flexible Spending Accounts Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave 403(b) with a 5% employer match Various voluntary benefits: Supplemental Life, AD&D and Disability Critical Illness, Accident and Hospital Indemnity coverage Tuition assistance Student loan servicing and support Adoption benefits Backup Childcare and Eldercare Employee Assistance Program, and other specialized behavioral health services and resources for employees and family members Discount on services at Lurie Children’s facilities Discount purchasing program There’s a Place for You with Us At Lurie Children’s we embrace and celebrate diversity and equity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team with a variety of backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints — recognizing that diverse identities strengthen our workplace and the care we can provide to the Chicago community and beyond. We treat everyone fairly, appreciate differences, and make meaningful connections that foster belonging and allyship. This is a place where you can be your best, so we can give our best to the patients and families who trust us with their care. Lurie Children’s and its affiliates are equal employment opportunity employers. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status, order of protection status, protected genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Support email: candidatesupport@luriechildrens.org Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago provides superior pediatric care in a setting that offers the latest benefits and innovations in medical technology, research and family-friendly design. As the largest pediatric provider in the region with a 140-year legacy of excellence, kids and their families are at the center of all we do. At Lurie Children’s we embrace and celebrate diversity and equity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team with a variety of backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints — recognizing that diverse identities strengthen our workplace and the care we can provide to the Chicago community and beyond. We treat everyone fairly, appreciate differences, and make meaningful connections that foster belonging and allyship. This is a place where you can be your best, so we can give our best to the patients and families who trust us with their care.