Research Associate

Position Summary

To join the Resuscitation Institute at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science conducting research on acute life-threatening conditions including cardiac arrest, hemorrhagic shock, and septic shock with especial emphasis on new therapeutic approaches and concurrent molecular biology work centered on the role mitochondria that play on these critical illnesses, and the development of novel pharmacological interventions for resuscitation from cardiac arrest and other acute hemodynamic crises.

The molecular work is predominantly focused on various aspect of mitochondrial function using techniques such as respirometry, western blots, cell culture, analytical measurement of high-energy nucleotides, and various techniques to measure inflammatory mediators in plasma and other body fluids. 

The selected candidate is expected to have a robust track record of training and experience in basic science research, ideally with demonstrated hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques.

The selected candidate is also expected to pursue academic development through grant application and preparation of manuscripts while teaching and mentoring medical students rotating through the Resuscitation Institute.

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 an 8% employer contribution after two years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee well-being and work-life balance. Full-time staff members are eligible for three weeks of vacation, 15 sick days, and 13 holidays plus two floating holidays. That is a minimum of 30 paid days off each year!

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. RFU 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. 

As part of our efforts to enhance the depth and breadth of research at RFU and to facilitate the translation of our basic science research to the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and identification of biomarkers in order to improve human health, a new Innovation and Research Park (IRP) was constructed, opening in January 2020. The novel design of the IRP enables academic researchers to reside in state-of-the-art laboratory space that is in close proximity to industry researchers on each floor of the 100,000 sq ft building. It also houses our Helix 51 Incubator, Chicago’s newest bioscience incubator for startups. To learn more, see   https://www.rosalindfranklin.edu/research/innovation-and-research-park/ 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Coordinate with the Resuscitation Institute’s Director the daily operation of non-surgical research laboratories research activities. These activities are predominantly focused on molecular biology techniques but also include work on preparation of drug formulations, helping with randomization, tissue processing and storage, and assistance with administrative activities, etc.
• Conduct research at the tissue, cell, and organelle level applying the broad array of molecular biology capability available at the Resuscitation Institute.
• Work with the Principal Investigator identifying funding opportunities pertinent to the Resuscitation Institute research areas and assist in the preparation of research applications.
• Assist with the preparation of manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication sharing authorship as appropriate based on degree of participation.
• As experience and research credentials accumulate, apply for research funding as Principal Investigator.
• Teach and mentor medical students rotating through the Resuscitation Institute.

Conditions of Employment

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

Required Education & Experience

• A Master’s degree in Biological Sciences (or equivalent) with a solid understanding of cardiovascular disease processes.
• Two or more years of research experience, ideally focused on molecular biology.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledgeable of basic laboratory techniques.
• Ability to work unsupervised and achieve success.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Proficiency in English language (i.e., speaking, reading, and writing).
• Proficiency in computer programs, especially those in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work/interact with diverse populations and show respect and sensitivity for cultural differences.
• Ability to work accurately and pay extreme attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to take on responsibility and plan for success.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to adjust the working schedule to the needs of the research project.
• Teaching experience and track record of mentorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD degree in Biological Sciences.

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