Research Technician I - Vosshall Lab - Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) : Job Details

Primary Work Address: 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.We are seeking a Research Technician to support the lab of Dr. Leslie Vosshall in the Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior at The Rockefeller University in New York City. The lab investigates the neurobiology and behavior of mosquitoes and has a strong track record in mentoring research technicians to prepare them for future career opportunities. More information on the lab can be found on their website.The Research Technician will collaborate closely with post-doctoral fellows and PhD students to support various research projects within the lab. They will be involved with experiments related to mosquito behavior, CRISPR-Cas9 genetic manipulation, gene expression, and imaging. In addition, the Research Technician will help with lab operations, maintaining the lab's mosquito strain collection, and be trained in microinjection to generate transgenic and CRISPR-Cas9-modified mosquito strains. The lab maintains a dynamic and face-paced environment, and the ideal candidate is comfortable with multi-tasking. Above all else, we are looking for someone who is excited by science, eager to learn, and passionate about supporting the lab's mission.The ideal candidate is looking to stay with the lab for at least 2-3 years before moving on to their next opportunity or graduate/medical school. The tentative start timeline for this role is in March/April 2025.Application instructions:Please include the following items in one PDF as part of your application:

• A cover letter including a summary of your research experience and your career goals.
• Names and contact information for at least 3 references.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Work efficiently and cooperatively with a team of researchers in experiments involving the following:
• Molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, genomic DNA and RNA preparation)
• Generate, validate, and maintain transgenic mosquito stocks.
• Perform micro-injection of mosquito embryos for generating transgenic and CRISPR-Cas9 mutant strains.
• Design and execute transgenic and gene-editing experiments (CRISPR-Cas9, PiggyBac transgenics).
• Work with stereoscopes and other microscope to sort, dissect, and inject mosquitoes.
• Work with confocal microscopes to analyze gene expression patterns
• Perform phenotypic analysis following genetic manipulation of mosquitoes.
• Monitor the progress and results of various experiments and projects while keeping the big picture in mind.
• Collaborate with lab members to analyze results, and to address complex technical problems, and consult scientific literature as needed.
• Prepare data for presentations at lab meetings and for publications.
• Participate in weekly lab meeting and journal club.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Assist with other support duties relating to lab operations as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences or related discipline.
• Prior hands-on research lab experience (undergraduate coursework is acceptable).
• Previous experience with any of the following standard molecular biology techniques and familiarity with underlying scientific principles is preferred but not necessary:
  • Molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning methods, gel electrophoresis) to generate and quality control plasmid DNA and RNA derived from tissues
  • Experience doing insect embryo micro-injections a strong plus, but not required
  • Comfort with and ability to work with mosquitoes.
  • Strong multitasking skills
  • Excellent time management
  • Ability to apply experience to new techniques and protocols and learn complex tasks with general instruction
  • Strong enthusiasm for developing new skills and expertise
  • Proficiency with the Mac platform and Microsoft Office applications
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Exemplary organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to use good judgment in managing deadlines and responding to inquiries
  • Detail oriented with highly accurate work product
  • Ability to follow instruction with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored

Physical RequirementsRemaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.#LI-JH1Please Note:This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word may, the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are essential functions of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.Compensation and Benefits Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. Compensation Range$19.24 (minimum) - $24.09 (midpoint) - $31.29 (maximum)Pay Type:HourlyHHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer