Lab Research Assistant - Dermatology

Job Description

Location:

Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit:

Hospital:
Rush University Medical Center

Department:
Dermatology

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

Shift: Shift 1

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

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).).

Pay Range: $21.61 - $30.53 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.

The Lab Research Assistant 2 performs laboratory procedures with limited supervision and supports complex scientific studies through specimen processing, equipment operation, and data documentation. The Lab Research Assistant 2 applies technical judgment to troubleshoot procedures, interpret results, and assist in protocol refinement. This position contributes to maintaining lab efficiency, training junior staff, and supporting high‑quality research outputs.

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

Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Experience: 2 year of laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment

OR

Experience (in lieu of a degree): 3years of laboratory experience, with at least one (1) year involves direct execution of laboratory tests or support of active research studies

• Knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs
• Advanced knowledge of standard experimental design
• Strong analytic skills
• Proficient knowledge of best practice laboratory practice and principles including their application
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Organizes responsibilities to meet protocol deadlines; adjusts task flow to maintain lab productivity and readiness
• Manages multiple tasks with attention to accuracy and sequencing; prioritizes responsibilities to meet study timelines
• Prior experience contributing to protocol development, scientific writing, or manuscript preparation
• Experience working independently in regulated or quality‑controlled laboratory environments
• Strong oral and written communication
• Proficiency using laboratory data systems such as REDCap, Excel, Graph Pad Prism, or Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry, organization, and basic analysis

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

Experience: 2+ years laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment | Prior supervisory / m mentoring / advising experience

• Requires effective use of fine motor skills for pipetting, microscopy, and data entry tasks
• Requires good vision and manual dexterity to accurately handle lab instruments, record data, and operate computerized systems
• Frequently stands or walks during labs and may occasionally lift or carry items (e.g., reagent trays, small sample containers) up to 25lbs
• Must work safely in environments containing chemicals, biological samples, or equipment with minimal physical strain

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform complex laboratory procedures with limited supervision; follow protocol objectives and adjust technique based on study conditions.
• Process biological specimens such as fluids, tissues, or cell lines using manual and automated techniques according to study‑specific requirements.
• Analyze test results, identify patterns or anomalies, and summarize findings for investigators or team leads.
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated and computerized lab…