Research Laboratory Technician - Biologics Core
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

By joining our team, you'll be part of our life-changing Mission and Vision. You'll work in a truly inclusive environment where diversity and equity are championed through words and actions. You'll contribute to an innovative culture that is second to none, one that embraces curiosity, discovery and compassion. You'll play a role in something that's never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes - as we Advance Human Ability, together.

Job Description Summary
The Research Laboratory Technician will assist in the daily operations of a research lab conducting an array of biomedical research projects and interaction with the diverse group of affiliated scientists and students.

The Research Laboratory Technician will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute.

The Research Laboratory Technician will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.

Job Description

The Research Laboratory Technician will:

• Support the daily activities of a biomedical research team tasked with the investigation of molecular, cellular, and organismal biology.
  
• Assist scientists, therapists, and physicians to perform and document translational and basic science studies.
  
• Support protocol creation/modification as needed with institutional review board (IRB), institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC), and research safety designates.
  
• Manage inventory supply, placing orders when necessary
  
• Support animal colony maintenance and genotyping when necessary.
  
• Contribute to new project plan development and experimental execution.
  
• Complete regular welfare checks on a colony of naturally aged mice and monitor for health concerns.
  
• Coordinate and perform mouse motor function and cognitive/behavioral testing.
  
• Perform tissue cryosectioning, immunohistochemistry labeling, and microscopy imaging of e neuromuscular tissues.
  
• Isolate, purify, and quantify proteins from murine and/or human blood and tissue samples.
  
• Maintain detailed records of results, including collecting and entering data.
  
• Perform all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
  

Reporting Relationships

• Reports directly to laboratory Principal Investigator, Dr. Mitra Lavasani, Director of the Translational Cell Therapy Lab, and works in an environment that is overseen by the Chief Scientific Officer.
  

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required

• A Bachelor's degree in a biology related field. Additional neuromuscular, bioengineering, or physiology background is a plus.
  
• Experience with cell culture and/or animal work.
  
• Experience with scientific writing and presentations.
  
• Experience and proficiency with both qualitative and quantitative research outcome measures.
  
• Analytical abilities necessary to resolve complex problems through the application of appropriate technologies.
  
• Ability to structure time to meet deadlines.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Experience with rodent handling is preferred and knowledge of neuromuscular anatomy and function is a plus.
  
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
  
  

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Equal Employment Opportunity

ShirleyRyan AbilityLab is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

---