Staff Scientist

Department

PSD Chemistry: He Group

About the Department

One of the first departments founded at the University of Chicago was the Department of Chemistry. Since then, The University of Chicago has been the recipient of more than 73 Nobel Prize recipients, 15 of which came from the Department of Chemistry. Our current faculty have considerable strength in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, as well as in interdisciplinary research that delves into biology, physics, and materials science.

Job Summary

The principal contribution of a Staff Scientist is leading translational research projects under the mentorship of Dr. Chuan He in the Department of Chemistry. The He Lab seeks a highly experienced scientist with expertise in drug discovery, chemical biology, epitranscriptomics, and next-generation sequencing technologies. The candidate will lead research projects involving RNA modifications, gene regulation, and the discovery and application of small-molecule chemical probes and therapeutic agents to investigate biological mechanisms and disease processes. The candidate must hold a Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field and have over 4 years of postdoctoral research experience.

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.
• Design, evaluate, and apply small-molecule chemical probes and therapeutic agents to investigate the functions of DNA/RNA modification pathways and their potential as therapeutic targets.
• Support large-scale research projects aimed at studying biological mechanisms and disease processes using chemical biology and molecular biology approaches.
• Operates in a highly collaborative mode with all members of the group and with others in the Institute and with off-campus collaborators.
• Under general supervision of principal investigator, supervise and/or assist with the complex technical duties in a laboratory doing non-clinical research. 
• Compile documents and assists with interpreting presentations or reports stemming from scientific contributions in the laboratory.
• Gives frequent internal and occasional external talks and tutorials on the thinking and work progress.
• Leads the contributions to scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.
• Mentor and supervise lab technician and undergraduate students within the group.
• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data. Participates in the promotion of a research project.
• May present work at scientific meetings.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

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

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Experience:       

• Previous Postdoctoral experience in the field.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of basic computer proficiency including computer programs and standard laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of relevant scientific fields.
• Knowledge of regulatory policies and procedures.

Preferred Competencies

• Demonstrated problem-solving, organization, analytical, and coordination skills including attention to detail.
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend scientific and technical literature, and methods to stay abreast of developments in the field.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team and interact with a diverse workforce.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Demonstrated ability to articulate their scientific discoveries both in written publications and in talks.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)
• Professional References (preferred)
• Cover Letter (preferred)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

When applying, the document(s) MUST be 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

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$70,000.00

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 equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, 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.

 

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.

 

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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