Research Technologist 2, Allergy

Department: MED-Allergy
Salary/Grade: NEX/11

This Research Technician position is in the Kuang Lab which investigates the role of eosinophils and lymphocytes, two different white blood cells, in a variety of eosinophilic disorders such as asthma, medication-induced eosinophilia vs. DRESS, EGID and hypereosinophilic syndromes (HES). We create well-characterized human patient cohorts and collect both clinical data and biological samples from human research subjects, with the goal of discovering unique blood eosinophil and T cell signatures in EGID as compared to other disorders. Our findings could transform how different types of allergic and eosinophilic diseases (e.g. allergic asthma) are understood. These studies are particularly timely as more patients are placed on drugs that remove eosinophils or target T cells, so we need to also understand the long-term consequences of such treatments.

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.

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, Western blotting
• PCR, RT-PCR

Cellular Biology:

• Cell culture, cell isolation
• Functional studies

Immunology:

• Flow cytometry
• ELISA
• Cytokine assay

Other (please specify):

• Human Blood Samples and its components - isolation and handling

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.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.89 to 27.97 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.

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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