Research Specialist (1-year term)

Department: CLP - DTC
Salary/Grade: NEX/13

Job Summary:

The Developmental Therapeutics Core (DTC) within Northwestern University's Chemistry of Life Processes Institute (CLP) seeks a Research Specialist to support preclinical translational research projects, with emphasis on rodent in vivo models, mammalian cell culture, investigator-facing study execution, and core operations.

This role supports multiple concurrent investigator projects by conducting in vivo rodent procedures (dosing, monitoring, sample collection), performing cell culture-based assays, maintaining accurate documentation, and contributing to data tracking and reporting to ensure high-quality and timely study deliverables.

This is a one-year term position. Opportunity for renewal will be based on performance and available funding.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct in vivo and in vitro experiments supporting investigator projects.
• Perform rodent procedures including animal handling, dosing (IV/SC/IP), health monitoring, euthanasia, and collection of blood/tissues/organs.
• Conduct standard mammalian cell culture and in vitro assays (e.g., drug screening, proliferation assays).
• Support occasional molecular biology assays (e.g., Western blot, PCR testing, immunoprecipitation) as needed.
• Manage multiple concurrent studies; maintain accurate documentation, data tracking, and deliver timely reports.
• Maintain lab readiness: SOP updates, inventory support, equipment upkeep, and adherence to safety/IACUC requirements.
• Train and support junior staff as needed.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• M.S. in a life science discipline (biology, pharmacology, or related field) with ~5 years of relevant laboratory experience
• Demonstrated experience working with rodents (mice/rats).
• Cell culture experience and strong aseptic technique.
• Experience with euthanasia, necropsy support, and collection/processing of blood and organs.
• Ability to administer drugs via IV, SC, and IP routes.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; accurate record keeping.
• Data recording/tracking and basic analysis (Excel graphing and/or GraphPad Prism).
• Ability to follow detailed study protocols and work independently and in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a life science discipline (biology, pharmacology, or related field) with ~5 years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Experience with in vivo tumor models and translational research workflows.
• Surgical experience (use of stereotaxic device is a plus).
• Strong communication skills for investigator-facing project coordination.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $33.21-$35.76 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.