Research Associate

Salary: $54,000 - $56,000, depending on experience and qualifications

Position Summary

The Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at the Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science, is seeking applications for a full-time Research Associate (Postdoctoral Level) in the laboratory of Dr. Rahul Vijay. This position will focus on investigating the dynamics of immune responses during various pathogenic insults and identifying potential immunomodulatory interventions to enhance adaptive immunity.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b) retirement plan which includes a 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ paid leave, 15 sick days, and 13 holidays plus two floating holidays.

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA.

Today, the university's 6 colleges continue Dr Franklin's legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, cardiac resuscitation, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

As a member of the Vijay Lab and in collaboration with other research groups at RFUMS and beyond, the candidate will be expected to:

• Lead independent research projects, including planning, execution, data collection, analysis, and manuscript preparation.
• Train and mentor graduate students, fostering their growth toward research independence.
• Work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented research environment.
• Demonstrate strong English communication skills (written and verbal).
• Foster an inclusive and diverse research environment.
• Conduct the following specific research activities:
• Flow cytometry (multicolor analysis)
• Mouse handling and colony management
• Nucleic acid extraction and preparation for PCR-based assays
• Western blotting and molecular biology techniques (including cloning)
• Mammalian and bacterial cell culture maintenance
• Expression and purification of recombinant proteins and plasmids
• Immunofluorescence microscopy
• Mass spectrometry
• Data analysis using Microsoft Office, GraphPad Prism, and other relevant software

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check
• Compliance with the current COVID19 vaccination policy

Required Education & Experience

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Immunology, or a related field
• Expertise in multicolor flow cytometry
• Research experience in vaccination strategies and immune modulation
• A strong record of peer-reviewed publications

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Expertise in multicolor flow cytometry
• Research experience in vaccination strategies and immune modulation
• A strong record of peer-reviewed publication

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Microbiology or Immunology.

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets