Research Technologist 2 or 3 - Neurology

Department: MED-Neurology
Salary/Grade: NEX/11 or NEX/13

Job Summary:

Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). May complete mathematical calculations, and/or computer tasks and/or assist in judging validity of data. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices.

The Mencacci Lab in the Department of Neurology is seeking a research technologist to join the team. Our research focuses on the genetic and molecular basis of movement disorders, like Parkinson's disease and dystonia. We use genomic technologies to identify novel monogenic causes of movement disorders as well as iPSC-derived neurons and animal models to study pathogenic mechanisms towards discovering new precision therapies. We are seeking a technician to work on multiple NIH-funded research projects, as well as to oversee the general day to day running of the lab

Please note this is a multi-level position that can be hired as either a Research Tech 2 or Research Tech 3 based on the minimum qualifications met.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $ 19.89 to $28.97 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Following protocols, designs, sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
• Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy.
• Using a fully functioning level of skill, completes the following activities

Molecular Biology:

• DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression Southern, Northern, Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR
• Plasmid preparation
• Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
• Recombinant virus production and purification

Cellular Biology:

• Cell culture, cell isolation
• Functional studies
• Transfection

Histology:

• Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
• Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy

Immunology:

• Flow cytometry
• ELISA, Elispot assay
• Cytokine assay
• Antibody production and purification

Animal:

• Husbandry
• Breeding and screening transgenic mice
• Dissections
• Blood collection
• Surgical procedures
• Database management of colony

Administration

• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
• Manipulates, interprets &/or presents results.
• Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
• Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
• Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.

Finance

• Tracks & summarizes lab supply expenses.
• Verifies accuracy of invoices.
• Orders &/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice &/or lab supplies.

Supervises

• Trains students.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrated laboratory experience;
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols;
• Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations;
• Attention to detail and accurate record keeping;
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Manual dexterity.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

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Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.

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