Department

BSD DFI - Metabolomics

About the Department

The Duchossois Family Institute (DFI) investigates the role of the microbiome in resistance and susceptibility to infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The microbiome consists of complex populations of microbes that can be characterized using a multi-omic approach. In the DFI, we identify, measure, and characterize the metabolites found in the gut. We aim to support the understanding of how these molecules function in microbe-microbe and host-microbe interactions. Analysts in the DFI metabolomics laboratory will aid in facility advancement, help create quantitative methods using mass spectrometry, and perform routine metabolite sample preparation and analysis.

University of Chicago Advanced Technology (UCAT) is a CLIA-licensed, CAP-accredited clinical laboratory housed within the University of Chicago Department of Pathology which specializes in clinical translational assays. The Mass Spectrometry Section uses mainly liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry-techniques, and its main objective is to develop and validate assays used to quantitate various analytes of interest for the purposes of clinical trials and for routine clinical testing for the University of Chicago Medicine.

Job Summary

We seek a Research Specialist for the Duchossois Family Institute (DFI) and UCAT clinical laboratory at the University of Chicago. The DFI seeks to accelerate research and interventions based on how the human immune system, microbiome and genetics interact to maintain health. A large focus of the DFI is on advancing discovery through enabling cutting-edge technology. This individual would report to the DFI Metabolomics Director and UCAT Laboratory Director, and will have an essential key role in managing the day-to-day metabolomics core workflow in the UCAT laboratory, specifically, for reporting time-sensitive data for a DFI clinical trial.

Responsibilities

* Routinely aliquots and prepares experimental and clinical samples for metabolite measurement using Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments/College of American Pathologists (CLIA/CAP)-approved laboratory procedures.

* Sets up automated and high-throughput sample preparation methods.

* Extracts metabolites from samples and precisely quantifies concentrations using LCMS and GCMS.

* Aids laboratory directors in advancing the technologies and services offered by the DFI and UCAT facilities.

* Analyzes mass spectrometry/metabolomic data using specialized software programs for clinical trial.

* Ensures that appropriate procedures are followed for safety, quality control, and quality assurance and that the data is documented properly.

* Adheres to all CAP/CLIA clinical laboratory standards and assists the laboratory director in the preparation of the laboratory for on-site inspections for continued licensing and accreditation.

* Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects.

* Supports data collection and analytical needs of research projects. Conducts literature reviews and helps write reports and manuscripts. Ensures project compliance with different policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.

* Takes responsibility for the following non-laboratory duties: transcribing and coding data; developing data collection instruments; presenting research; and recruiting and scheduling research subjects. Acquires higher-level skills and knowledge in the process.

* Takes responsibility for the following laboratory duties: recognizing abnormal results and varying conditions or procedures to correct problems; setting up and performing experiments. Analyze the meaning, significance, causes, and effects of the subject.

* Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

* Degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, biology, or related field from an accredited institution.

* A Masters degree in one of the above fields is desired.

Experience:

* Developing quantitative measurements of small molecules using triple quadrupole instrumentation.

* Developing targeted metabolomic analysis using mass spectrometry.

* Reporting quantitative data for quality control in a regulated environment desired.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

* Experience with chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques including GCMS and LCMS.

* Experience utilizing basic chemical and biochemical knowledge towards the measurement and/or characterization of small molecules using mass spectrometry.

Preferred Competencies

* Excellent record-keeping and organizational skills.

* Strong multi-tasking and time-management capabilities.

* Interactive communication and work as a team player.

Working Conditions

* CAP/CLIA clinical laboratory environment.

* Must have physical ability to move gas cylinders.

Application Documents

* Resume/CV (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Exempt

Pay Frequency

Monthly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

Yes

Health Screen Required

Yes

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

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