The University of Chicago Press is seeking a Research Technician to join the Kuehn laboratory at the James Franck Institute. You will perform high-throughput bacterial growth experiments, handle data acquisition and analysis, and communicate results within the research team.
What You'll Do
- Conduct experiments starting bacteria cultures from frozen stocks and perform precultures.
- Analyze and report on the purity of cultures.
- Perform high-throughput growth measurements using the Liconic incubator system integrated with the BMG plate reader, including all related software and troubleshooting.
- Compose a library of media with different amino acid concentrations and compositions on a base minimal medium.
- Report results of all experiments carefully and reliably.
- Analyze fitting growth rates and carrying capacities.
- Work with the group to design experiments, including reading primary literature.
- Attend weekly meetings with the PI and student, and maintain prompt communication.
- Present results in group meetings.
- Provide routine laboratory duties by collecting data in support of research projects under direct supervision.
- Collect and enter data, and assist in data analysis and preparation of reports and manuscripts.
What We're Looking For
- Vocational training, apprenticeships, or equivalent experience in a related field (not typically requiring a four-year degree).
- Knowledge and skills developed through less than 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Nice to Have
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, physics, chemistry, or molecular engineering.
- Experience performing assays necessary for the project.
- Experience with data curation and software utilization for high throughput robotics.
Technical Stack
- High-throughput robotics
- Liconic incubator system
- BMG plate reader
Team & Environment
You will work under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI) and collaborate directly with a student and a collaborator in the Netherlands.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation rate: $23.00/hour.
- Eligible employees receive health, retirement, and paid time off benefits.
Work Mode
This is an onsite position located in Chicago, IL.
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer committed to nondiscrimination and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.
