Lab Research Assistant 1 - Infectious Diseases

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: Int Med Infect Diseases-ResAdm

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (

Pay Range: $18.87 - $26.66 per hour

Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry-specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

The Infectious Disease Division at Rush has a vibrant, long-standing, federally funded research program to study the epidemiology and prevention of healthcare-associated infections, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant organisms. The laboratory research assistant l will participate in specimen processing, bacterial and fungal cultivation, and phenotypic and molecular testing of microbes to support this work.

Summary

The Lab Research Assistant 1 performs laboratory support tasks and entry-level scientific procedures under direct supervision. The Lab Research Assistant 1 prepares materials, processes samples, records basic data, and maintains clean and organized workspaces. This position is designed to develop foundational laboratory skills while supporting the daily operations of the research team. Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Required Job Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Experience: 1 year of laboratory experience
• Experience (in lieu of a degree): 2 years of laboratory experience

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs
• Proficiency in standard experimental design
• Knowledge and demonstration of good laboratory practice, principles and application
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Effective oral and written communication
• Strong analytic skills

Preferred Job Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Experience: 1 Year laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment

Physical Demands

• Requires effective use of fine motor skills for pipetting, microscopy, properly donning and doffing lab PPE, and data entry tasks
• Requires good vision and manual dexterity to accurately handle lab instruments, record data, and operate computerized systems
• Frequently stands or walks during labs and may occasionally lift or carry items (e.g., reagent trays, small sample containers) up to 25lbs
• Must work safely in environments containing chemicals, biological samples, or equipment with minimal physical strain

Job Responsibilities

• Perform basic laboratory techniques such as pipetting, weighing, or centrifugation under supervision
• Clean and restock workstations, shared tools, and lab supplies in accordance with safety and contamination prevention procedures
• Operate standard lab equipment (e.g., balances, microscopes, water baths, autoclave sterilizer) after training and document usage
• Observe and practice laboratory safety protocols, including proper PPE use and chemical handling procedures
• Label, store, and log biological specimens (e.g., fluids, tissue, slides, cells) according to assigned protocols
• Assist in receiving shipments, unpacking supplies, and updating inventory logsAccurately record preparation steps, procedural notes, or results in laboratory notebooks or data systems as instructed
• May assist with basic training for Lab Technicians
• Attend lab meetings and shadow senior team members to learn lab procedures and study goals
• Ask clarifying questions and seek feedback to improve skills and contribute to team productivity
• Prepare solutions, buffers, and basic reagents by following detailed instructions and measurement guidelines

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.