Research Technician

Department BSD MED - Hematology and Oncology - Wolf Research Staff

About the Department

The Section of Hematology/Oncology has a proud and long tradition of excellence in research, patient care and clinical discovery. Ranked among the finest cancer programs in the country, the Section is comprised of nationally and internationally known faculty with expertise in all major types of malignancies, blood disorders, and experimental therapies.

Job Summary

The Wolf lab focuses on the characterization of the effective and failing T cell receptor (TCR)-repertoire to identify therapeutic TCR candidates for potential clinical translation. The gained insights can be applied to various immunotherapies since our research investigates the TCR-response of the host, which is the foundation to understand and utilize an effective immune response against any target.

We study pre-clinical mouse models as well as human patient samples to translate findings from bench to bedside and back again. The main aim is advancing individualized TCR-T cell therapy against any type of cancer. To achieve this, the long-term goal is building a platform that allows the selection and validation of putative therapeutic TCR candidates. However, insights will also improve our understanding of various other immunotherapeutic interventions using vaccinations, tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) or immune checkpoint blockade (ICB).

Responsibilities

• Works on a research project with guidance from the principal investigator and other laboratory members.
• Designs and executes daily laboratory experiments, including mammalian cell culture, 3D organoid culture, molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning), RNA/DNA isolation, and immunological assays such as ELISA and flow cytometry.
• Keeps notes and records experimental data.
• Works with mouse models, including breeding of mice, weaning pups, genotyping, and phenotyping.
• Assists in management of mouse colony.
• Receives, labels and safely stores lab supplies.
• Maintains and renews inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Assists in training students and new laboratory personnel in techniques and equipment operation.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree.

Experience:

• Handling and working with mice.
• Familiar with cell culture and molecular biology techniques, including DNA isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Basic knowledge of research techniques and methods.
• Basic office/lab software skills, including Microsoft Office, Excel, and Power Point.

Preferred Competencies

• Organized, task-oriented, good record keeper.
• Excellent organizational skills, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Work with little direct oversight and within a larger research team.
• Adaptable and willing to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities.

​ Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)

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When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$50,000.00 - $70,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in theBenefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer 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. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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