Staff Scientist

University of Chicago • Austin, TX

20h • $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The laboratory of Professor Chuan He at the University of Chicago is internationally recognized for pioneering discoveries in RNA biology and epigenetic regulation, with a major focus on RNA modifications (the “epitranscriptome”). The lab develops and applies innovative chemical biology and genomics technologies to understand how RNA modifications regulate gene expression and influence human health.

We are seeking a highly motivated Staff Scientist to support a major research initiative focused on profiling DNA/RNA modification landscapes and contributing to the development of next-generation genomic methods. The Staff Scientist will complete ongoing research projects involving DNA/RNA modification profiling, high-throughput sequencing-based assays, and new genomic method development. A successful candidate will perform molecular biology experiments and coordinate lab research. Moreover, the Staff Scientist will also train and monitor students and laboratory technicians, coordinate external collaborations and write proposals for external funding and manuscripts for publications. This is an exciting opportunity for a candidate interested in cutting-edge RNA biology, sequencing technologies, experimental method development and with experience in managing projects, training and coordinating collaborations.

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 degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemical biology, or a related field.
• Extensive hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry).
• Experience with core molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with project management in the lab and with external collaborators.
• Experience in manuscript and proposal writing.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a research environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, especially for multi-step protocols and sample tracking.
• Prior experience working with DNA/RNA, including RNA extraction and handling RNase-free workflows.
• Next-generation sequencing workflows (library prep, library QC (qPCR, bioanalyzer/fragment analyzer systems).
• Competence with tissue sample processing and cell culture.
• Competence with bioinformatics, handling large data files.
• Competence with project management
• Competence with manuscript and proposal writing.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and advanced molecular biology experiments, including nucleic acid extraction, purification, quantification, PCR/RT-PCR, and gel-based analysis.
• Prepare and process RNA and DNA samples for next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows, including library preparation and QC steps.
• Manage the development, optimization, and evaluation of new genomic and epitranscriptomic methods, including experimental troubleshooting and protocol refinement.
• Support large-scale projects aimed at profiling DNA/RNA modification patterns across biological samples.
• Coordinate preparation of buffers, reagents, and experimental materials.
• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory notebooks (paper or electronic), ensuring data integrity and traceability.
• Contribute to data organization, preliminary analysis, figure preparation, and summary reports for internal lab use.
• Work closely with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and other lab members to support shared research goals.
• Train and assist students and lab technicians.
• Coordinate external collaborations.
• Write proposals for external funding and manuscripts for publication.
• 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.
• Performs 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: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees