at University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois, United States
Job Description
DepartmentBSD NEU - HAARC - SuperAging
About the Department
The Department of Neurology at The University of Chicago Medical Center has a great history and tradition, having made significant contributions to neurological training, clinical care, and the basic understanding of neurological disease. The Healthy Aging & Alzheimer's Research Care (HAARC) Center, is a multidisciplinary center at the University of Chicago focused on implementing research on aging, Alzheimer's and related dementia research focused on optimizing knowledge, care, interventions, and quality of life. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.
Job Summary
The Research Lab Technologist will support ongoing clinical and research projects by performing biological sample processing and overseeing the organization and maintenance of the laboratory's sample inventory. This role is integral to ensuring the accuracy, quality, and integrity of biological specimens collected and stored as part of research studies. They will work closely with study coordinators, investigators, and other lab personnel to support timely and compliant research activities.
Responsibilities
- Receive, log, and process biological specimens (e.g., blood, tissue, saliva, etc.) in accordance with study protocols and biosafety regulations.
- Perform centrifugation, aliquoting, labeling, and storage of samples using established laboratory procedures.
- Maintain sample processing logs and ensure proper documentation for chain of custody and regulatory compliance.
- Organize and catalog biological samples in freezers and refrigeration units.
- Maintain and update electronic sample inventory databases to ensure accurate tracking and retrieval of specimens.
- Conduct periodic inventory checks and audits to ensure data accuracy and sample integrity.
- Monitor freezer temperatures and coordinate maintenance, alarm responses, and backup plans.
- Respond to emergency or after-hours calls (e.g. freezer alarm, autopsy coordination), shipments after office hours.
- Follow laboratory safety protocols and universal precautions in all tasks.
- Assist in maintaining lab cleanliness, supply inventory, and equipment calibration.
- Participate in lab meetings, trainings, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Assist with data entry, documentation, or coordination tasks as needed.
- May require work on weekends and be flexible for work hours depending on workload and need.
- 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
Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, biology, or related science.
Experience:
- Experience handling biological samples in a research or clinical lab setting.
- Experience with clinical research protocols and regulatory requirements.
Preferred Competencies
- Knowledge in a relevant scientific field.
- Knowledge of research techniques or methods.
- Knowledge of regulatory policies and procedures.
- Analytical skills.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Organizational skills.
- Verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to learn new research techniques or methods.
Application Documents
- Resume/CV (required)
- Cover Letter (required)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe 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.
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