Research Technologist
The Research Technologist is responsible for receiving, tracking, and manually processing biological specimens in a biorepository setting, ensuring accurate association with patient data in LIMS. This entry-level role supports internal and external research by preparing high-quality samples for time-sensitive studies, maintaining specimen integrity, and collaborating closely with study teams to troubleshoot and optimize specimen handling workflows.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Healthcare & Biomedical Research.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position overview
The Confidential Client is seeking an entry‑level Research Technologist to support biospecimen intake and processing within a biorepository Sample Intake (BAP) lab. This hands‑on role focuses on receiving, logging, tracking, and manually processing biological specimens, ensuring accurate linkage to patient/study data in laboratory information management systems (LIMS). The position supports internal and external research teams by preparing and distributing quality samples for time‑sensitive studies.
What you’ll do
- Receive and accession biological specimens in the Sample Intake Lab and log them into LIMS with accurate patient/study associations.
- Manually process specimens per protocols to preserve specimen integrity for time‑sensitive research.
- Prepare and distribute processed samples to other biorepository areas and affiliated research/clinical labs.
- Track specimen movement and status across multiple LIMS to maintain auditable records.
- Troubleshoot collection, handling, and processing issues with study teams to meet protocol requirements.
- Perform routine lab tasks including manual pipetting and basic chemistry/biology procedures in line with quality and safety standards.
- Support continuous improvement in specimen handling and workflow efficiency to reduce errors.
- Assist with routine instrumentation use and basic troubleshooting to sustain lab operations.
- Provide professional, timely customer support to research and clinical teams relying on biorepository services.
- Participate in lab rotations and adapt to shifting priorities across Sample Intake and repository workflows.
- Communicate clearly with teammates and study staff to coordinate intake and processing priorities.
Required qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a human biological science such as Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a closely related field.
- Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, detail‑oriented laboratory environment with time‑sensitive tasks.
- Basic laboratory skills (manual pipetting, safe specimen handling) and ability to follow written SOPs.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively on multidisciplinary teams.
- Willingness to work onsite full time and participate in rotating lab assignments.
Details
- Job type: Contract to Hire (initial contract with potential direct hire by Confidential Client)
- Workplace: Fully onsite in Rochester, IL
- Pay range: $23.00 – $25.00 per hour
- Individual pay within the range will depend on qualifications, experience, and other job‑related factors.
- Benefits (if eligible): medical, dental & vision; voluntary life & AD&D; short‑ and long‑term disability; 401(k) options; HSA; employee assistance programs; paid time off; and other program offerings subject to eligibility.
Why this role matters
This role helps accelerate biomedical research by ensuring investigators receive high‑quality, well‑documented specimens and metadata. You’ll gain hands‑on lab experience with LIMS, specimen workflows, and cross‑functional collaboration — a strong foundation for growth in clinical research, biorepository operations, or laboratory science careers.
Equal employment & accessibility
Confidential Client and Careertakes are equal‑opportunity employers and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to characteristics protected by law. If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact Careertakes through the platform and we will assist you.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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