Research Jobs at Rush University Medical Center with Visa Sponsorship

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: Microbial Pathogens & Immunity

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (9:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM)

Pay Range: $23.12 - $32.66 per hour

Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

SUMMARY

A Lab Research Technician is a technical specialist who supports laboratory operations through hands-on execution of established procedures, equipment operation, specimen handling, and compliance with safety and quality standards. The role emphasizes technical accuracy, consistency, and operational reliability, with limited responsibility for research interpretation or study design.

The Lab Research Technician 3 performs specialized laboratory procedures under limited supervision to support research studies and laboratory operations. This role prepares equipment, collects and processes samples, performs analytical techniques, and contributes to data analysis and presentation. The Lab Research Technician 3 ensures quality standards, safety compliance, and efficient workflows, while assisting in protocol adaptation and training junior staff.

Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

REQUIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor’s degree required or equivalent

Experience: 1 year of laboratory exposure in a research, healthcare, academic or instructional setting

OR

Experience (in lieu of a degree): 2 years of laboratory experience in a research, laboratory, healthcare, academic or instructional setting

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Knowledge of specimen handling, labeling, storage, and sample tracking
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment, routine maintenance, and calibration
• Understanding of scientific protocols and laboratory methodology
• Skill in identifying equipment issues and escalating technical problems
• Ability to perform data calculations, statistical analysis, and validation
• Knowledge of biosafety, chemical hygiene, and radiation safety standards
• Attention to detail in documentation and data organization
• Ability to interpret results and recognize data trends or deviations
• Effective oral and written communication in technical settings
• Skill in training or mentoring peers on laboratory procedures
• Commitment to compliance, accuracy, and professional conduct

PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a biological or chemical science with applied laboratory coursework

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Requires frequent use of fine motor skills for pipetting, specimen handling, instrument operation, labeling, and documentation tasks
• Requires good visual acuity and manual dexterity to accurately manipulate laboratory instruments, read measurements, and operate computerized lab systems
• Frequently stands or walks for extended periods while performing laboratory procedures and moving between workstations
• Occasionally lifts, carries, or moves laboratory supplies, equipment, or reagent containers weighing up to 25 lbs
• Must safely work in laboratory environments involving exposure to chemicals, biological specimens, temperature-controlled equipment, or mechanical devices while following safety protocols and PPE requirements

Responsibilities:

• Independently collect, process, and store biological samples for analysis following established protocols. Label, store, and log samples according to established protocols. Design and oversee biological sample collection and processing workflows to ensure quality and efficiency. Troubleshoot complex issues regarding sample integrity.
• Configure, calibrate, and validate laboratory equipment. Oversee preventive maintenance schedules, repairs, and coordination of services with vendors. Manage inventory budgets and procurement of supplies for equipment.
• Conduct complex laboratory techniques and procedures following established protocols. Validate new methodology. Modify or adapt protocols to meet experimental needs. Assist in development of new methodology.
• Operate and troubleshoot specialized laboratory equipment. Monitor equipment during procedures and record observations/results. Oversee training of staff on equipment. Coordinate service visits.
• Record, organize, and analyze collected data in laboratory notebook or digital equivalent. Perform complex calculations and use advanced statistical/computational tools for data analysis. Perform data validation. Ensure data quality across projects.
• Follow and ensure compliance with institutional policies biosafety, chemical safety, and radiation safety. Wear appropriate PPE. Follow institutional waste disposal procedures. Report spills, exposures, and injuries promptly. Serve as resource on laboratory safety for staff. Serve as liaison to institutional safety committees and other institutional safety entities. Oversee correction of deficiencies identified during laboratory safety inspections, audits, etc.
• Maintain organized laboratory notebook or digital equivalent. Prepare data summaries, figures, and present observations/results with peers, scientists, and senior staff. Assist in preparing materials for reports, presentations, or publications. Author sections of manuscripts, applications, and reports.
• Analyze and interpret data/results. Recognize data patterns and deviations. Communicate results to peers, scientists, and senior staff. Troubleshoot with and provide recommendations to other project staff.
• Complete required trainings and training renewals. Oversee training of incoming laboratory staff, students, interns, etc. Supervise activities of junior staff and students/interns. Provide performance input to PIs/lab managers/supervisors. May serve as a lead technician.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support scientific operations and project advancement.

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.