Visiting Research Specialist -Department of ...

Visiting Research Specialist -Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyHiring Department: Microbiology and ImmunologyLocation: Chicago, IL USARequisition ID: 1040347Posting Close Date: For fullest consideration, please upload a cover letter,CV, and the names and contact information for three references by 5pm 5/1/2026Salary: The salary range of employees currently holding equivalentpositions is $43,888 to $55,000.We strive to provide a competitive salary, consideringfactors such as available market data, internal equity, candidate experienceand qualifications, and budget constraints. The final salary offer will bedetermined through a thorough assessment of these elements.About the University of Illinois ChicagoUIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.The University of Illinois Chicago, Departmentof Microbiology and Immunology, isseeking a highly motivated and organized Visiting Research Specialist to work in the laboratory of Dr.Rong on research related toantiviral development. The research specialist will assist with both day-to-daylaboratory operations and ongoing research projects. This position offers anexcellent opportunity for individuals interested in gaining hands-on researchexperience in virology, molecular biology, and cell biology within acollaborative academic research environment.Job DutiesLaboratory Operations and MaintenanceOrder laboratory supplies and reagents and coordinate purchasing requests from lab members.Maintain chemical and biological inventory records and manage laboratory stock.Manage and organize freezer, liquid nitrogen tank, and sample databases to ensure proper sample tracking and storage.Receive, log, and ship laboratory materials, reagents, and biological samples as needed.Maintain, troubleshoot, and coordinate repair or servicing of laboratory instruments and equipment.Organize laboratory space, including reagents, shared equipment, and storage areas.Prepare common laboratory reagents, buffers, and solutions.Research SupportPerform laboratory experiments and assist with data collection and basic data analysis to facilitate research projects.Maintain accurate experimental records and assist with data organization.Assist with preparation of figures, datasets, and experimental summaries for presentations and publications.Conduct independent experiments under supervision and contribute to ongoing research projects.Receive training in virology, molecular biology, and cell culture techniques.Contribute to a collaborative research environment and provide support to lab members when needed.ProfessionalDevelopment OpportunitiesOpportunity to gain extensive hands-on research experience in virology and molecular biology.Potential opportunity for co-authorship on scientific publications depending on research contributions.Minimum Qualifications Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in biology,microbiology, biochemistry, or a related life science field and 3 years'experience. The candidate should demonstrate strong organizational skills,attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities whilemaintaining accurate records. The ability to work both independently andcollaboratively in a team environment, along with good communication skills anda willingness to learn new experimental techniques, is essential.Preferred QualificationsPrior laboratory research experience is preferred.Experience with molecular biology, cell culture, or virology techniques ishighly desirable. Familiarity with laboratory inventory systems, orderingsystems, or sample tracking databases is also beneficial. This position isparticularly well suited for candidates interested in gaining researchexperience before pursuing graduate school, medical school, or other advancedresearch training.The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an AccommodationArtificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

Created: 2026-04-15