Department

PSD Chemistry: He Group

About the Department

The laboratory of Professor Chuan He at the University of Chicago is internationally recognized for pioneering discoveries in RNA biology and epigenetic regulation, with a major focus on RNA modifications (the “epitranscriptome”). The lab develops and applies innovative chemical biology and genomics technologies to understand how RNA modifications regulate gene expression and influence human health.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Staff Scientist to support a major research initiative focused on profiling DNA/RNA modification landscapes and contributing to the development of next-generation genomic methods. The Staff Scientist will complete ongoing research projects involving DNA/RNA modification profiling, high-throughput sequencing-based assays, and new genomic method development. A successful candidate will perform molecular biology experiments and coordinate lab research. Moreover, the Staff Scientist will also train and monitor students and laboratory technicians, coordinate external collaborations and write proposals for external funding and manuscripts for publications. This is an exciting opportunity for a candidate interested in cutting-edge RNA biology, sequencing technologies, experimental method development and with experience in managing projects, training and coordinating collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and advanced molecular biology experiments, including nucleic acid extraction, purification, quantification, PCR/RT-PCR, and gel-based analysis.
• Prepare and process RNA and DNA samples for next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows, including library preparation and QC steps.
• Manage the development, optimization, and evaluation of new genomic and epitranscriptomic methods, including experimental troubleshooting and protocol refinement.
• Support large-scale projects aimed at profiling DNA/RNA modification patterns across biological samples.
• Coordinate preparation of buffers, reagents, and experimental materials.
• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory notebooks (paper or electronic), ensuring data integrity and traceability.
• Contribute to data organization, preliminary analysis, figure preparation, and summary reports for internal lab use.
• Work closely with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and other lab members to support shared research goals.
• Train and assist students and lab technicians.
• Coordinate external collaborations.
• Write proposals for external funding and manuscripts for publication.
• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data. Participates in the promotion of a research project.
• Participates in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-authors/authors scientific research manuscripts. Provides peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts.
• May present work at scientific meetings.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• PhD degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemical biology, or a related field.

Experience:

• Extensive hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry).
• Experience with core molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with project management in the lab and with external collaborators.
• Experience in manuscript and proposal writing.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a research environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, especially for multi-step protocols and sample tracking.

Preferred Competencies

• Prior experience working with DNA/RNA, including RNA extraction and handling RNase-free workflows.
• Next-generation sequencing workflows (library prep, library QC (qPCR, bioanalyzer/fragment analyzer systems).
• Competence with tissue sample processing and cell culture.
• Competence with bioinformatics, handling large data files.
• Competence with project management
• Competence with manuscript and proposal writing.

Working Conditions

• Research laboratory environment.
• Handling of biological samples,
• Adherence to laboratory safety practices.

Application Documents

• A brief cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience (required)
• Resume (required)
• References (preferred)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$70,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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