Department

BSD MED - Gastroenterology - Mcdonald Research Staff

About the Department

Within the Section of Gastroenterology, the McDonald Lab seeks to better understand the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with a particular focus on how host-microbe interactions drive disease initiation and progression. We are primarily interested in the development of a devastating complication of Crohn’s disease termed perianal Crohn’s disease. We combine patient-facing clinical and translational studies with cutting-edge assays on biospecimens obtained from patients to answer key questions about the disease.

Job Summary

The Section of Gastroenterology is looking for a Research Technician interested in the field of mucosal immunology and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) to work with the group of Dr. McDonald. His group is working on projects aimed at understanding host and microbial factors that contribute to IBD pathogenesis and response to therapy. These projects entail working with patient samples obtained from IBD patients. The candidate will be in charge of all aspects of sample processing and storage and will work closely with clinical research coordinators charged with sample acquisition. In addition, the candidate should have skills in molecular biology to perform the preparation of libraries for RNA-sequencing, in tissue processing for microscopy, and in cellular immunology to perform and assist with immunology experiments that involve cell isolation, cytokine-based assays, and flow cytometry. Finally, the candidate will participate in laboratory meetings regarding current research and other lab activities and will assist with organizing the laboratory and ordering supplies.

Responsibilities

• Isolate and freeze cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and intestinal biopsies.
• Perform RNA isolation, and library preparation for RNA sequencing.
• Perform flow cytometry experiments and Elisa.
• Performs tissue processing for microscopy.
• Perform and assist with immunology experiments under supervision of principal investigator, postdoctoral researcher or graduate student.
• Collects, records, and analyzes data.
• Participates in presentation, manuscript, and grant proposal preparation.
• Participates in laboratory meetings regarding current research and other lab activities.
• Assists with organizing laboratory and ordering supplies.
• Maintains a safe environment for others and self; adheres to safety policies and procedures.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

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

Work Experience:

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

Certifications:

---

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related field.

Experience:

• Experience in flow cytometry, microscopy, molecular biology, or genomics.
• Experience with human samples.

Preferred Competencies

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic immunology coursework.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities.
• Effective time-management skills.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

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

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

​
FLSA Status

Exempt

​
Pay Range

$50,000.00 - $70,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.