Research Specialist - Spatial & Genome Technologies

The Research Resources Center (RRC) in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR) at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is seeking an experienced Research Specialist to join our Spatial and Genomics Technologies Core. This position offers the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art single-cell and spatial genomics technologies while partnering with investigators across a broad range of biomedical disciplines to generate high-quality, impactful research data.

As a key member of the Core, you will support the full lifecycle of genomics projects—from experimental consultation and sample preparation through library construction, quality assessment, and technology implementation. You will work with advanced platforms such as 10x Genomics Chromium, Xenium, Visium and CytAssist while helping researchers answer complex biological questions using the latest genomic approaches.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys laboratory-based genomics, thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to stay at the forefront of rapidly evolving single-cell and spatial biology technologies.

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.

Salary: The budgeted salary range for the position is $70,000 - $80,000. The final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, and budget constraints.

Key Responsibilities

Performing genomic profiling workflows, including bulk RNA sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing and single-nucleus RNA sequencing.

Evaluating RNA, cell and nuclei quality and quantity to ensure successful downstream applications.

Preparing samples, constructing sequencing libraries and performing library quality assessments using automated electrophoresis systems.

Operating and optimizing the 10x Genomics Chromium platform for single-cell genomics applications.

Conducting imaging-based spatial genomics workflows using the Xenium platform, including sample preparation, instrument operation, routine maintenance, troubleshooting and quality monitoring.

Performing sequencing-based spatial transcriptomics workflows using the CytAssist and Visium platforms, including tissue processing, library preparation and quality control.

Maintaining laboratory instrumentation, troubleshooting technical issues and coordinating with vendor technical support to maximize instrument performance and minimize downtime.

Coordinating laboratory operations, including reagent preparation, inventory management, project documentation and workflow scheduling.

Working closely with investigators to ensure projects are completed on time and meet rigorous quality standards.

Training laboratory personnel and student researchers in laboratory techniques, protocols and safety practices.

Evaluating and implementing new single-cell and spatial genomics technologies as they become available, helping expand the capabilities of the core facility.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, genomics, biochemistry, bioinformatics, life sciences or a related field.

Minimum of 3 years of laboratory experience supporting genomic, molecular biology, single-cell, and/or spatial omics workflows.

Demonstrated experience operating, troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory instrumentation and associated software used in genomics research.

Direct experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, library preparation and quality control.

Experience with experimental design, sample preparation and quality assurance processes for genomic, single-cell or spatial omics studies.

Familiarity with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics or related omics technologies.

Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams.

Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.

Preferred Qualifications

M.S. or Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, biochemistry or a related field.

Direct experience with single-cell and spatial omics platforms, including 10x Genomics Chromium, Visium, Xenium or related technologies.

Experience with spatial biology technologies such as multiplexed in situ hybridization, imaging-based spatial profiling or sequencing-based spatial transcriptomics.

Knowledge of bioinformatics tools and analytical workflows for single-cell and spatial omics data analysis.

Experience working in an academic core facility, shared resource laboratory, biotechnology company or similar research support environment.

Familiarity with cloud-based computing environments, high-performance computing resources and genomic data management practices.

APPLICATION : To ensure fullest consideration, application materials must be received by Friday, August 14, 2026 by 5pm CST . Start date is as soon as possible after the close of the search. Salary is commensurate with experience and education. All candidates must create a candidate profile through and upload a cover letter, resume and contact information for three references by the close date.

Candidates must apply for this role by visiting the following link:

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. Offers of employment by the University of Illinois may be subject to approval by the University’s Board of Trustees.

Artificial 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.

The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees.