Research Analyst, Spatial Biology

University of Chicago

  • Chicago, IL
  • $50,000-70,000 per year
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 month ago
Department BSD SRF - Human Diseases & Immune Discovery (HDID)About the Department The goal of the Human Disease & Immune Discovery core facility is to provide expertise, equipment and physical space for researchers to perform cutting edge, high resolution investigations of human immune system. We leverage innovative technologies from field of flow cytometry for data generation and analysis and through close collaboration with Genomics core facility we can provide cellular component solutions to even higher resolution genomic investigations.Job Summary The job involves performing advanced technical assignments related to cutting-edge spatial biology research projects within the Human Disease & Immune Discovery (HDID) core facility at the University of Chicago. The successful candidate will play a critical role by taking primary responsibility for the operation and maintenance of a new 10x Genomics Xenium Analyzer for spatial transcriptomics and providing secondary support for an existing Akoya CODEX/PhenoCycler platform for spatial proteomics. Responsibilities will include complex sample preparation (particularly from FFPE tissues), instrument operation, quality control, data management. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.The job performs routine assignments related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Writes articles, reports and manuscripts. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.ResponsibilitiesOperate and maintain the 10x Genomics Xenium Analyzer, including setup, calibration, execution of runs, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting.Perform and optimize complex sample preparation protocols for Xenium analysis, including handling of fresh frozen and FFPE tissues, tissue sectioning, slide preparation, probe hybridization, and amplification steps.Implement and monitor quality control procedures for samples, reagents, and instrument performance to ensure high-quality data generation.Manage Xenium-specific reagents, consumables, and inventory.Perform initial data processing, quality assessment, and transfer of Xenium data to users.Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Xenium workflows.Provide support for the Akoya CODEX/PhenoCycler spatial proteomics platform, including assisting with sample preparation, antibody conjugations, instrument operation, and maintenance as needed.Participate in scientific discussions regarding experimental design, new technology evaluation, and innovation in spatial and single-cell biology.Maintain detailed laboratory records of experiments and results.Assist with general laboratory duties, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, and ensuring a safe and organized laboratory environment.Interact with students, postdoctoral fellows, and other laboratory staff under the direction of the Facility Director.Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.Maintains recruiting and scheduling research subjects; assisting with developing or amending study protocols; assisting with developing data collection tools; assisting with building databases; and providing general administrative support. Has general awareness in research techniques or methods, regulatory policies and procedures, and relevant scientific field.Performs other related work as needed.Minimum QualificationsEducation: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through
2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.Certifications:---Preferred QualificationsEducation:Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a closely related field.Master's degree in a relevant field is highly preferred.Experience:Minimum of 1-3 years of post-baccalaureate, hands-on laboratory experience in a molecular biology, cell biology, or genomics research setting. Experience in a core facility environment is highly desirable.Demonstrated experience with complex molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid handling, purification, and quality control.Proficiency in tissue handling, including frozen and/or FFPE tissue processing (deparaffinization, antigen retrieval).Experience with histology techniques, immunofluorescence (IF), and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC), highly desirable.Experience with advanced microscopy techniques (e.g., fluorescence, confocal) is strongly preferred.Direct hands-on experience with spatial transcriptomics or spatial proteomics platforms (e.g., Xenium, CODEX/PhenoCycler, GeoMx, MERSCOPE, Visium) is highly desired.Experience with flow cytometry is a plus but not required.Preferred CompetenciesMeticulous attention to detail and strong organizational and record-keeping skills.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent interpersonal skills and a strong desire to work in a collaborative, service-oriented core facility environment.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Proven ability to learn and master new complex technologies and protocols.Ability to work both independently with minimal guidance and effectively as part of a team.Ability to manage time efficiently, multitask, and meet deadlines.Flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing research needs and priorities.Ability to be on-time for scheduled experiments and appointments.Working ConditionsLaboratory environment.May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance (e.g., working with fixed human and animal biological samples, chemicals, and laser-equipped instruments).Working at a laboratory bench for extended periods.Working at a desk in front of a computer monitor for extended periods for data analysis and record keeping.Application DocumentsResume (required)Cover Letter (required)Three Science/Supervisor Reference Contact Information (required)When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.Job Family ResearchRole Impact Individual ContributorScheduled Weekly Hours 40Drug Test Required NoHealth Screen Required YesMotor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required NoPay Rate Type Salary​
FLSA Status Exempt​
Pay Range $50,000.00 - $70,000.00The 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 YesThe 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 thePosting StatementThe 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 theJob seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request viaAll 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.The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: . Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

University of Chicago