A Shaping the Language of Life – Project in Biochemistry/Chemistry/RNA

Opportunity Description:

Curious about how chemistry rewires biology? Join Jack Szostak’s lab (Nobel Prize 2009) at UChicago to help develop new, faster, and cleaner ways to modify RNA. These chemical “edits” power everything from basic gene regulation studies to next-gen therapeutics. You’ll learn by doing—no prior research experience required.

What you’ll do

Help design and test strategies to install or transform specific RNA modifications

Run hands-on experiments (e.g., gels, HPLC, basic analysis)

Interpret data with the team and iterate on protocols

Who should apply
Students from any natural science or engineering background—biology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular engineering, physics, CS with wet-lab interest, etc. First-years welcome. We provide full training and safety onboarding.

What you’ll gain

Core lab skills and good experimental hygiene

Exposure to chemical biology, nucleic acids, and method development

Mentoring in experimental design, troubleshooting, and scientific communication

Time & logistics
Flexible hours during the academic year

How to apply
Email Filip Boskovic at filipboskovic@uchicago.edu
with:

A short intro (your interests + year/major)

Relevant coursework or experience (if any)

Your availability this quarter

Bring curiosity; we’ll teach you the rest.

Primary Responsibilities: 

Principal Responsibilities

Prepare RNA samples and assist in chemical/biochemical experiments

Analyze and record data with guidance from mentors

Contribute to lab discussions and project development

Maintain safe and organized lab practices

Students will receive full training and progressively take on independent projects as their skills grow.

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

Undergraduate students at the University of Chicago with an interest in chemistry, biology, molecular engineering, or related natural sciences are eligible to apply. No prior research experience is required, as full training will be provided. Applicants should be motivated to learn, detail-oriented, and committed to safe laboratory practices.

Sophomore or junior standing is preferred, although motivated first-year students are also encouraged to apply. Coursework in general chemistry, organic chemistry, or molecular biology is helpful. Prior laboratory experience—such as pipetting, solution preparation, or gel electrophoresis—is a plus but NOT required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and an interest in problem-solving will be valuable for success in this project.

After agreement to join the team, this is the only safety requirement:
Lab-101: Chemical Hygiene Plan - Laboratory Safety 101https://researchsafety.uchicago.edu/training/chemical-safety-training/

Knowledge or skills gained from the experience: 

Undergraduates in this position will gain hands-on experience in nucleic acid chemistry and, characterization of DNA and RNA. They will develop skills in analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and electrophoresis, as well as learn how to design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments in a research setting. This experience will strengthen their ability to analyze and interpret data, communicate scientific findings in both written and oral formats, and work effectively as part of a collaborative research team. In addition, students will build a strong foundation in the chemical principles underlying nucleic acid structure, reactivity, and biological applications.

Application Process: 

How to apply
Email Filip Boskovic at filipboskovic@uchicago.edu
with:

A short intro (your interests + year/major)

Relevant coursework or experience (if any)

Your availability this quarter

Bring curiosity; we’ll teach you the rest.

Application Deadline: 

Application Requirements: