Department: WCAS Molecular Biosciences
Salary/Grade: NEX/9

The Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences is reimagining traditional arts and sciences education in ways that prepare our students for success in an ever-changing, complex world. The College is the most comprehensive of Northwestern’s 12 schools, offering 47 majors to approximately 4,300 undergraduate students. Our goal is to develop in students a Northwestern Mindset – a flexible, adaptable view of the world that seeks to understand the pressing issues of today and transform them into the promising new opportunities of tomorrow.  Staff who work in the College think creatively, work collaboratively, and are dedicated to building a strong community.  
The hallmark of our distinctive educational model is diversity in all of its manifestations. We are committed to maintaining and enhancing the breadth and depth of our course offerings and to ensuring the intellectual and experiential diversity of our faculty and students. In short, we believe that diversity is an essential value that lies at the heart of our community and one that needs to be actively encouraged and pursued. 

Job Summary:
Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s).  May complete mathematical calculations, and/or computer tasks and/or assist in judging validity of data.  Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices.

Working Conditions: This is grant funded term appointment subject to renewal based on funding. 

Specific Responsibilities: 

• Following protocols, designs, sets-up and conducts basic experiments.
• Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy. 
• Using a fully functioning level of skill completes the following activities:
  • Molecular Biology:
    • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression  Southern, Northern, Western blotting
    • PCR, RT-PCR
    • Plasmid preparation
    • Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
    • Recombinant virus production and purification
  • Cellular Biology:
    • Cell culture, cell isolation
    • Functional studies
    • Transfection
  • Histology:
    • Microscopy    
  • Immunology:
    • Flow cytometry
  • Other (please specify):
    • Yeast genetics and molecular biology

• Records test results and may maintain databases.  
• Completes standard and routine clerical duties such as copying, filing, data entry, word processing, etc. 
• Maintains inventory of reagents, microbial strains, and lab supplies
• Completes other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Basic molecular biology techniques, familiarity with sterile technique, familiarity with software for data entry and analysis

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• BA or BS in Biological Sciences

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Yeast genetics and molecular biology, fluorescence and transmitted light microscopy, basic biochemistry

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.