Job Overview:

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.

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.

Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field (e.g., biology, chemistry, or biochemistry)
- Minimum 2 years job-related work experience

- Strong knowledge of laboratory procedures and techniques
- Experience working in a clinical laboratory setting is preferred
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques is a plus
- Excellent analytical skills with attention to detail
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team

Join our team as a Research Laboratory Specialist and contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of microbiome chemistry. We offer opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative work environment. Apply today to be part of our dedicated team!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $27.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift

Ability to Relocate:

• Chicago, IL 60637: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person