Research Technician at The University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois

Job Description:

Department

BSD ACC - Groman Lab



About the Department

The Groman Lab (www.gromanlab.com) is part of the Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care at the University of Chicago. We are interested in understanding why some individuals are more susceptible to developing addiction and other diseases compared to others. Current projects include understanding how neural activity in specific circuits is related to behavior across key developmental periods, the molecular mechanisms that regulate genetic and environmental behavioral mechanisms of addiction risk, and investigating the computational mechanisms of select decision-making functions in normal and abnormal states. Our work integrates complex behavioral assessments with state-of-the-art neuroscience techniques in rats to develop links between biology and behavior.



Job Summary

The Groman Lab in the Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care at the University of Chicago is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Technician to join our neuroscience research team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in conducting behavioral neuroscience experiments focused on understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying decision-making, addiction, and the impact of social experiences on brain development. Successful applicants will possess the technical skills and personal qualities to thrive in a fast-paced laboratory environment.



Responsibilities

• Conduct behavioral experiments with rats, including operant conditioning, decision-making tasks, and drug self-administration paradigms.
  
  


• Perform surgeries, including stereotaxic injections and implantation of catheters.
  
  


• Collect and analyze behavioral data using specialized software.
  
  


• Assist with molecular biology techniques, such as tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression analysis.
  
  


• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and data.
  
  


• Contribute to general lab maintenance and organization.
  
  


• Participate in lab meetings and present research findings.
  
  


• 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

Certifications:




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Preferred Qualifications




Education:

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, or related field.
  
  

Experience:

• Research experience conducting behavioral or neuroscience assessments in rats or mice.
  
  


• Knowledge of behavioral neuroscience techniques and principles.
  
  

Preferred Competencies

• Entry-level skills in at least one neuroscience research method.
  
  


• Ability to communicate with tact and diplomacy.
  
  


• Strong organizational skills.
  
  


• Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to working as a team.
  
  


• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
  
  


• Strong data management skills.
  
  


• Absorb large amounts of data quickly.
  
  


• Ability to adapt to changing work situations and assignments.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Ability to walk one mile per day.
  
  


• Ability to lift 20 pounds.
  
  
  
  

Application Documents

• Resume (required)
  
  


• Cover Letter (required)
  
  

When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe 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

Hourly



FLSA Status

Non-Exempt



Pay Range

$42,000.00 - $61,000.00
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 the Benefits Guidebook.



Posting Statement



The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, 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.


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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