Visiting Research Specialist- Rong Lab, University of Illinois Full-time NEW

The University of Illinois Chicago, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, is seeking a highly motivated and organized Visiting Research Specialist to work in the laboratory of Dr. Rong on research related to antiviral development. The research specialist will assist with both day-to-day laboratory operations and ongoing research projects. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in gaining hands-on research experience in virology, molecular biology, and cell biology within a collaborative academic research environment.

Job Duties

Laboratory Operations and Maintenance

• Order 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 Support

• Perform 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.

Professional Development Opportunities

• Opportunity 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 while maintaining accurate records. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment, along with good communication skills and a willingness to learn new experimental techniques, is essential.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior laboratory research experience is preferred. Experience with molecular biology, cell culture, or virology techniques is highly desirable. Familiarity with laboratory inventory systems, ordering systems, or sample tracking databases is also beneficial. This position is particularly well suited for candidates interested in gaining research experience before pursuing graduate school, medical school, or other advanced research training.

For fullest consideration, please upload a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information for three references by 5pm 5/1/2026 at [Please click the Apply button for the link or address]

The salary range of employees currently holding equivalent positions is $43,888 to $55,000.

We strive to provide a competitive salary, considering factors such as available market data, internal equity, candidate experience and qualifications, and budget constraints. The final salary offer will be determined through a thorough assessment of these elements.

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 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 review our non-discrimination statement and additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/cms/One.aspx?portalId=4292&pageId=1411899

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.

Tagged as: Life Sciences