Department

PME Squires Lab

About the Department

The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME; https://pme.uchicago.edu/) was established in May 2018 and evolved from the Institute for Molecular Engineering founded in 2011. The PME integrates science and engineering to address global challenges from the molecular level up. The PME’s rigorous academic and research programs are made possible through the University of Chicago’s unique partnership with Argonne National Laboratory. The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering is the first new school at the University of Chicago in three decades and the first school in the nation dedicated to molecular engineering. In the next phase of growth as a School, the PME will continue to expand its team of world-class faculty researchers and empower students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate with faculty in cutting-edge facilities. The PME aims to bring solutions for urgent societal problems to the forefront while training the next generation of scientific leaders and entrepreneurs.

Job Summary

The Squires research team within the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering is seeking a full-time Research Technician to support the day-to-day operational and research needs of complex research projects that involve working and supporting the research in the lab as needed. The Squires lab engineers novel platforms for single-molecule measurement and manipulation, and applies these instruments to scientific problems in biophysics and nanoscale biology including photosynthesis and light harvesting, heat shock, macromolecular assembly, and lab-on-chip diagnostics. As the candidate gains experience, the candidate is expected to manage independent projects in addition to working with other lab members.

Responsibilities

• Assists with planning, development, and execution of research in the laboratory.

• Assists in organizing and managing the laboratory, including technical documentation and instrument maintenance.

• Participates in writing reports and manuscripts.

• Conducts literature reviews.

• Presents research findings at staff meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences.

• Collects and enters data. Assists in analysis of data and with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.

• Complies with institution, state and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

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Work Experience:

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

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a field relevant to the research being conducted (e.g., physics, biophysics, optics, engineering).

Experience:

• Experience in a research group, preferably in an independent project.

• Experience in conducting wet or dry lab work in a research laboratory, preferably in an independent project.

• Experience in developing and evaluating new experimental methods, preferably in the physical sciences or engineering.

• Experience in working within academic and laboratory research environments, preferably in an independent project (e.g., undergrad summer projects).

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Basic computer proficiency in standard computer program suites for documentation and communication.

• Basic proficiency with standard laboratory equipment.

• Knowledge of research techniques or methods for optics and spectroscopy (microscopy and optics alignment, laser operation, principles of fluorescence).

• Knowledge of programming and data analysis approaches.

• Knowledge of relevant scientific fields.

• Knowledge of regulatory and safety policies and procedures.

Preferred Competencies

• Demonstrated problem-solving, organization, analytical, and coordination skills.

• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend scientific and technical literature, and methods to stay abreast of developments in the field.

• Ability to work independently and collaborate with other lab personnel.

• Attention to detail.

• Ability to train others.

• Ability to be flexible in changing research focus.

Working Conditions

• Laboratory environment.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)

• Cover Letter (preferred)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Pay Frequency

Biweekly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Posting Statement

Employees must comply with the University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements. More information about the requirements can be found on the University of Chicago Vaccination GoForward.

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff 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.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

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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