Research Technologist I - Carle Illinois College of Medicine

Position Summary

The Research Laboratory Technician provides technical support in cell and molecular biology research. The position performs established laboratory procedures in support of Principal Investigator-directed research projects and assists with the daily operations of a research laboratory, including maintaining laboratory supplies, equipment, and compliance documentation, in alignment with institutional and regulatory requirements.

The Research Laboratory Technician reports directly to the Head, Biomedical and Translational Sciences, who serves as the Principal Investigator.

Duties and Responsibilities

Research Operations and Technical Expertise

• Perform routine and moderately complex cell and molecular biology experiments in support of PI-directed research projects.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures, including aseptic techniques, passaging, cryopreservation, and routine contamination testing (e.g., Mycoplasma).
• Conduct laboratory assays as required, which may include:
  • PCR, qPCR, and RT-PCR
  • Western blotting and immunoprecipitation
  • Molecular cloning, plasmid preparation, and transfections
  • ELISA and other immunoassays
  • Flow cytometry
  • Fluorescence and confocal microscopy
• Prepare and maintain laboratory reagents, buffers, media, and common solutions to support ongoing research activities.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and data records in accordance with established laboratory practices.
• Assist with experimental troubleshooting under the direction of the Principal Investigator or senior research staff.
• Attend laboratory meetings and provide experimental updates as requested.

Laboratory Operations, Compliance and Resource Management

• Assist with ordering laboratory supplies, reagents, and services in accordance with institutional purchasing procedures.
• Maintain inventory records to ensure adequate stock of reagents, consumables, chemicals, and cell lines.
• Monitor laboratory equipment and report maintenance or repair needs to the Principal Investigator or appropriate service personnel.
• Assist with maintaining laboratory certifications, protocols, and regulatory documentation.
• Follow established laboratory safety, biosafety, and chemical safety procedures.
• Maintain laboratory SOPs, safety training documentation, and operational records as directed.

Personnel Training and Supervision

• Provide task-based guidance to students or new laboratory personnel on routine procedures as requested.
• Assist with onboarding activities related to laboratory safety and basic technique orientation.
• Support shared laboratory organization, scheduling, and general operational needs.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships; work cooperatively and collegially with others in a manner consistent with a workplace of dignity and respect.
• Foster an inclusive workplace culture that values differing perspectives, experiences, and approaches.
• Maintain effective and professional working relationships across the college's internal and external partners, recognizing the distinct structures, priorities, and missions of each.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological, chemical, or medical sciences (such as biology, pharmacology/toxicology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, physiology, or medical technology), or a closely related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting laboratory operations such as inventory tracking and supply ordering.
• Experience assisting with regulatory documentation (e.g., laboratory safety, IACUC, IBC).
• Experience with animal models (rodents), including basic handling and support of in vivo research activities.
• Experience with specialized techniques relevant to the laboratory's research focus.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow established procedures and protocols.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a research environment.
• Interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 4524 - Research Technologist I position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the posting close date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $45,000 - $55,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Friday May 1, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact wmmyers@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.