Research Specialist - Biorepository Core

UIC 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 nearly 260,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

This role is in the UI Health Biorepository, co-managed by the College of Medicine Department of Pathology and the Research Resources Center (RRC), housed in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research. The Research Specialist works under the supervision of the Biorepository Core Director and manages the collection, processing, storage, and distribution of human biospecimens. Duties include maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), protocols and detailed records of specimen inventory, as well as overseeing daily operations of the core. This position contributes to the design and delivery of research projects and collaborates with researchers to develop, execute and interpret research projects. Performs complex laboratory and data collection techniques.

Primary Responsibilities

Perform collection, processing, storage, and distribution of biological samples. Ensure compliance with regulations, including those related to biosafety and biosecurity.

Perform human cell, serum, plasma, and nucleic acid isolations using tested preservation and storage protocols and ensuring the specimens have high analytical performance and reproducibility for downstream processes.

Communicate with clinical and research teams to procure tissue and liquid samples for ongoing research projects and discuss specimen collection protocols and storage needs.

Maintain a freezer farm. Monitor temperature sensors on freezers and liquid nitrogen tanks and provide timely support if equipment fails.

Develop, update, and implement new standard operating procedures and lab safety protocols for the biorepository as needed.

Using specialized software, register, de-identify, track, and release biospecimens. Keep detailed and accurate records of each step. Maintain an accurate inventory of biological materials stored.

Oversee day-to-day operations of the biorepository, manage supplies inventory, and maintain laboratory equipment.

Using an online billing system, enter charges for the services provided and assist with monthly billing.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or a related field. 

A minimum of three-year’s experience in Biorepository or a related field.

Experience in tissue procurement, histopathology or pathology-related field.

Strong understanding of regulations related to biosafety and biosecurity.

Experience with sample tracking and inventory management.

Experience with laboratory equipment and techniques.