Research Associate

Position Summary

The Center for Genetic Diseases in the Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science welcome applications for a full-time researcher to conduct wet-lab scientific research in the Lab of Dr. Weihang (Valerie) Chai. We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to conduct original research to study the molecular mechanism for maintaining genome instability and regulating therapeutic resistance in cancer cells.

We are a highly interactive team using integrated genomics, molecular/cell biology, and in vivo approaches to advance targeted cancer therapy. Additional information regarding the Chai Lab can be found at: https://weihangchai.wixsite.com/chailab

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long-term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b)-retirement plan which includes an 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ personal leave, 15 sick days, and 9 paid holidays, paid winter break, plus two floating holidays.

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA. RFU is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, cardiac resuscitation, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct original research to understand the molecular mechanism for maintaining genome stability in cells and the role of replication stress in carcinogenesis.
• Participate in the development and design of research projects, protocols and experiments.
• Design, coordinate and conduct experimental procedures in the study of protein-protein interaction, protein-DNA interaction, protein modification, genome stability analysis in cancer cells.
• Work with the Principal Investigator and other senior researchers in the lab to prepare research results and written summaries of results in manuscript form for publications and in graphics form for presentation at research meetings and for grant proposals.
• Maintain and ensure compliance with regulatory protocols and records.

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check

Required Education & Experience

Ph.D. in biochemistry, cell or molecular biology, or other discipline related to the molecular biosciences. Demonstrated expertise in molecular and cell biology. A publication record consistent with background. Strong communication skills, both orally and written.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Strong work ethic. Demonstrated professionalism. Molecular and Cell Biology Techniques: Cell culture, Western blotting, immunofluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, co-immunoprecipitation, transfection, Nucleic Acid isolation, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, molecular cloning, restriction digestion, working with retrovirus and lentivirus, PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, Protein analysis, etc.

Statistical analysis, ability to use GraphPad Prism, EndNote, BioRender, Microsoft Office including Word, PowerPoint, Blast analysis, Primer design, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior research experience in the area of genome stability.

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets