Opportunities

We are actively recruiting highly motivated PhD students. Additionally, a number of technician positions are available for undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students.

Any previous research experiences with tissue culture (especially pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation), molecular biology, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and mouse genetics could be helpful, but are not required. Background on single-cell RNA-seq analysis, bioinformatics or relevant mathematics background, programming expertise (such as R and python) would be very beneficial but are not required.

The lab is committed to the creation of a supportive and healthy work environment where all members of diverse background and training levels can thrive and achieve their different training and career goals.

We encourage interested individuals to contact hm40@illinois.edu.

Research Technician Positions

Location: Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Job description: The stem cell epigenetics lab (https://publish.illinois.edu/stemcells-epigenetics/) of the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, UIUC is seeking candidates who carry out: 1) research activities in the lab; and 2) contribute to lab management tasks.

1) The research actives include molecular, cellular, and physiological studies in the field of epigenetics and stem cells, using both wet lab (including classic methods and high-throughput sequencing) and computational approaches. As a research technician, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects in stem cells differentiation. While previous research experiences in tissue culture, molecular biology, transcriptomics, and epigenomics are beneficial, they are not required. We welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds, and comprehensive trainings will be provided.

Key responsibilities include parts of the following:

  • Tissue culture: Assist in cell culture activities, with a focus on pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation (previous experience is a plus).
  • Molecular biology: Conduct laboratory experiments involving DNA and RNA techniques.
  • Transcriptomics and epigenomics: Participate in data collection and analysis.
  • Mouse genetics: Support mouse-related research activities (previous experience is a plus but not required).
  • Bioinformatics and data analysis: While not required, a background in single-cell RNA-seq analysis, bioinformatics, or relevant mathematics would be highly beneficial.
  • Programming: Familiarity with programming languages such as R and Python would be an advantage, but it is not mandatory.
  • Participation in lab meetings, research seminars, research discussion and design, data analysis, reports and manuscript writing are important parts of the training and job, and are strongly encouraged if not all required.

2) Lab management key responsibilities include parts of the following:  

  • Lab supply procurement and inventory management: order common supplies (cell culture medium, growth factors, small molecules, buffers, etc) and stocking consumables.
  • Preparing or delegating standard laboratory reagents: common enzymes and kits.
  • Equipment management: maintenance working conditions of equipment, training users to properly use of equipment, coordinating routine maintenance and repair appointments.
  • Lab administrative tasks: research safety compliance and animal research regulation compliance.

The lab is a dynamic and collaborative research environment dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge in epigenetic mechanism underlying normal development and tissue maturation, and responsible to pathology such as inflammation. We are seeking motivated and enthusiastic individuals to join our team. This offers great opportunities for students who would like to gain more experience to prepare for medical school, graduate school, or other health-related professional schools.

Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (molecular and cellular biology, genetics, physiology, etc.).
  • Enthusiasm for scientific research and a willingness to learn, ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team, effective communication and organization skills, and commitment to a safe work environment.

Appointment Information:

This is an academic hourly position with approximate workload of 40 hours per week. Salary is commensurate with experience. The expected start date is flexible, with a preference for an earlier starting date. This search remains open until positions are filled.

How to Apply: Please submit resume or CV, a brief cover letter outlining research interests and career goals, along with contact information of three professional references to hm40@illinois.edu.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Apply today to be part of our dynamic research team in pursuit of scientific discovery and innovation!

https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/8242?c=illinois