Join a dynamic and collaborative research team at a leading biotech organization's Genomic Research Center in North Chicago. This is a hands-on lab-based role ideal for early-career scientists with a strong foundation in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology. You'll contribute to exciting research focused on stem cell reprogramming, CRISPR gene editing, and high-throughput screening-work that directly supports cutting-edge discovery in neuroscience and therapeutic development. The environment is diverse, team-oriented, and encourages independent thinking and scientific growth, including opportunities for authorship and participation in multidisciplinary collaborations.
location: North Chicago, Illinois
job type: Contract
salary: $25 - 28 per hour
work hours: 9 to 5
education: Bachelors
responsibilities:
- Independently execute daily wet lab experimental protocols
- Maintain human induced pluripotent stem cells and stem cell-derived cells
- Support stem cell reprogramming, maintenance, and differentiation workflows
- Perform molecular and biochemical assays including:
- RNA extraction
- cDNA synthesis
- RT-qPCR
- Western blot
- Immunofluorescence
- Flow cytometry
- Carry out CRISPR-based gene editing and functional validation
- Produce and transduce lentivirus for gene delivery experiments
- Prepare media, reagents, and aliquots to support routine cell culture tasks
- Accurately record experiment details, SOPs, and quality control data
- Communicate effectively with teammates and contribute to collaborative research goals
- Assist in manuscript preparation and scientific documentation as needed
- Maintain flexibility for critical timepoint experiments, including weekends or holidays
qualifications:
Required Skills:
- BS or MS in biological sciences, molecular biology, neuroscience, or biochemistry
- 2-3 years of hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture (maintenance, freezing, thawing, passaging)
- Strong foundation in molecular biology techniques (RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RT-qPCR)
- Proficiency in biochemical techniques (Western blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence)
- Familiarity with proper wet lab practices and common lab equipment
- Excellent communication, organizational, and documentation skills
- Experience with gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9
- Lentiviral production and transduction
- Prior experience with stem cell reprogramming and differentiation protocols
- Background in high-throughput functional screening
- Experience in cross-functional team settings and flexible scheduling for time-sensitive experiments
skills: Molecular Biology, Flow Cytometry, Cell Cultures, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.
At Randstad, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact HRsupport@randstadusa.com.
Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).
This posting is open for thirty (30) days.
