Research Scientist - Emergency Medicine - Chicago

This is a faculty-track research position for a specialized Analytical Chemist or Toxicologist who will lead the operational and scientific development of a comprehensive public health toxicology laboratory. Initially, the role will focus on establishing a forensic chemistry function to test illicit drugs and paraphernalia for contaminants in support of public health surveillance. As the laboratory matures, the Scientist will lead its expansion into clinical functionality, developing bioanalytical assays for human samples and streamlining operations with existing institutional toxicology services.

The successful candidate will operate at the intersection of independent bench science and strategic program leadership. Responsibilities include designing complex experiments, managing high-resolution instrumentation, and translating data into impactful manuscripts and grant proposals. This role requires a high degree of transparency and collaboration, serving as a primary liaison between clinical staff in medical toxicology and addiction medicine, public health entities, and community partners to advance the institution’s research and public health missions.

Job Summary:

The Scientist will lead and execute specialized research projects aligned with the department’s strategic goals. This role involves experimental design, data analysis, and the translation of findings into peer-reviewed publications or clinical applications. The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to advance the institution's research mission.

Job Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct complex experiments. Analyze results using advanced statistical tools and maintain rigorous documentation of all methodologies and findings.

• Draft and submit research grant proposals to secure external funding (NIH, NSF, or private foundations). Lead the preparation of manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals.

• Partner with internal faculty and external stakeholders on cross-functional research initiatives. Present findings at departmental meetings and national conferences.

• Provide technical guidance and oversight to laboratory staff, postdoctoral fellows, and students.

• Ensure all research activities adhere to institutional, state, and federal regulatory standards, including IRB and safety protocols.

Required Job Qualifications:

• PhD, MD, or MS in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Neuroscience) with laboratory research experience (preferred 3 years for PhD/MD and 6 years for MS).

• Relevant experience in lab setting across federal, industry, or academic centers.

• Proficiency with instrumentation, techniques, and analysis specific to the type of research being conducted.

Preferred Job Qualifications:

• History of successful grant funding (PI or Co-PI status).

• Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and a demonstrated ability to present complex data to diverse audiences.

• Excellent communication, analytical and technical writing skills, and proficient in English language.

• Ability to work independently; to self-initiate, prioritize and manage own work.

• Skilled in collaborative, multidisciplinary teamwork.

• Highly-motivated, enthusiastic and detail-oriented.

Rush University System for Health is an academic health system integrating patient care, education, research, and community partnerships to improve health in diverse communities.

Rush includes Rush University Medical Center, Rush University (2,500+ students across medical, nursing, and health sciences colleges), Rush Copley Medical Center, Rush Oak Park Hospital, and regional outpatient facilities.

Rush is recognized for clinical excellence, earning placement on U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals Honor Roll 2025-2026 (top 20 of 5,000+ hospitals evaluated). The system received Vizient's Quality Leadership Award, ranking within the top ten among 99 academic medical centers for the 13th consecutive year.

All three hospitals earned LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader designation, and Rush has been named a "Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion" for six consecutive years.

Rush is committed to health equity, particularly addressing the 16-year life expectancy gap between Chicago's Loop and West Side. As the largest West Side employer, Rush implements an Anchor Mission strategy through local hiring, investing, sourcing, and volunteering. The system has invested over $6 million on the West Side since 2018 while continuing to provide excellent patient care for all.

Rush offers competitive total compensation that includes base pay, benefits, and other incentive programs for our employees. The total pay range shown reflects the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, knowledge and skills; relevant experience and training; education, certifications, and licensure; primary work location; and other business and organizational fa