Chemical Biologist

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

13d • $68,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Tang Research Group works at the interface of chemistry and biology, with a focus on profiling, editing, and reprogramming the human genome and transcriptome using nucleic acid-modifying enzymes, as well as developing peptide-based therapeutics. We discover, characterize, and engineer CRISPR-derived gene-editing agents and other advanced genome-editing tools. In parallel, we develop in-house sequencing technologies to dissect epigenetic and epitranscriptomic modifications at the molecular level, along with high-throughput platforms for peptide diversification and screening. Ultimately, our work aims to create new molecular tools and uncover novel targets for therapeutic development.

The Tang lab is seeking an experienced Chemical Biologist to work on projects including, but not limited to, directed evolution of genome-editing tools. The job performs routine assignments that facilitate and promote the research project and contributes to the scientific direction of a research resource. This role requires a demonstrated history in collaborative research, effective communication, the ability to follow standard protocols, and an aptitude for troubleshooting. The ideal candidate should value continuous learning, build networks, and uphold the university's academic excellence to make meaningful contributions to advanced research pursuits. This position will perform routine research activities and assist in drafting presentations, articles, reports, and manuscripts based on research findings in a laboratory environment.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related fields.
• Postdoctoral experience.
• Experience working in higher education, academic, or industrial research environment.
• Knowledge of basic computer proficiency including computer programs and standard laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of research techniques and methodologies in molecular biology, directed evolution, protein engineering, and advanced human genome-editing techniques.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team, and to interact effectively with a diverse workforce.
• Ability to provide mentorship and guidance to junior researchers.
• Excellent time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, analytical, and coordination skills, with attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and apply scientific and technical literature, and to stay current with advances in the field.
• Familiarity with biochemistry, molecular biology, directed evolution, protein engineering, genome editing, cell culture, and next-generation sequencing.
• Proficiency in techniques across multiple fields, including analytical chemistry, quantitative proteomics, metabolomics, biochemistry, and molecular and cellular biology.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research tasks and routine bench-level experiments under general supervision.
• Analyze, document, and communicate experimental results.
• Contribute to data interpretation and protocol optimization.
• Collaborate with supervisors and team members to plan experiments and align work with project goals.
• Compile documents and assist with interpreting presentations or reports stemming from scientific contributions in the laboratory.
• Assist in training junior laboratory personnel and maintaining laboratory organization and inventory.
• Support the preparation of presentations, reports, grant applications, and scientific manuscripts.
• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data.
• Participates in the promotion of a research project.
• Participates in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-authors/authors scientific research manuscripts.
• Provides peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts.
• May present work at scientific meetings.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree