Visiting Research Specialist - Dept of Biological Sciences, Poretsky Lab

Visiting Research Specialist - Dept of Biological Sciences, Poretsky Lab

Hiring Department:
Biological Sciences

Location:

Chicago, IL USA

Requisition

Posting Close Date:
March 23, 2026

Salary:
The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000 to $65,000. Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, and budget constraints.

UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).

Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting‑edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities.

UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

Visiting Research Specialist will join Dr. Rachel Poretsky's aquatic microbial ecology lab. The research is centered on wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) to quantify viruses and other pathogens in wastewater samples from across the state of Illinois in association with public health departments and other research program goals. This is conducted with wastewater sample concentration, RNA extraction, and PCR-based molecular techniques, primarily in high-throughput manner, and is complemented by a strong background in microbiology.

Most work will consist of establishing high-throughput methods and laboratory experimentation. The successful candidate will be required to help develop and use standard operating procedures. The successful candidate will be able to effectively interpret and communicate results to the rest of the team, and troubleshoot small issues when necessary.

• Perform a wide range of molecular biology techniques related to viral analysis of wastewater samples
• Closely interact with different collaborators to facilitate experimental processes
• Maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment including daily logs and sample tracking
• Maintain proper notebook documentation and clear records of experimental work
• Assist with routine maintenance of lab instruments, samples, reagents, and assist other researchers in the lab, when needed
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in science or related field required. Master's degree in science preferred.
• A minimum of 3 years related research experience.
• Possesses and applies comprehensive knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices and methods.
• Experience with a wide range of molecular biology methodologies. Direct experience with DNA/ RNA extractions from complex samples (i.e. not solely pure culture), extensive experience troubleshooting PCR is a plus.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.