Department: MCC Biomedical Engg
Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary:
Sets up equipment and establishes protocols for a new lab. Conducts experimental research 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. Performs wet lab work including bacteria culture, mammalian cell culture, protein production, and biomolecular assays in addition to mouse handling including injections and tumor measurements. Is involved in interdisciplinary research, combining protein engineering, immunology, and molecular biology to develop novel immunotherapies for chronic inflammatory diseases.

This is a one-year termed position in the Volpatti Lab (lisarvolpatti.com) subject to renewal dependent on performance and available funding.

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.

Molecular Biology:

* DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression

* PCR

* Plasmid preparation

* Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA

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

* Dissections

* Blood collection

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.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

* 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.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Degree in biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field

* Independent research experience in a biomedical engineering or immunoengineering lab;

* Track record of disseminating research through publications or presentations.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

* Ability to perform mammalian cell culture with sterile technique;

* Experience with ELISAs and spectral flow cytometry;

* Experience with budgeting, purchasing, and inventory management.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $19.31-$27.16 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 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 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 to learn more.

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