Research Technician I - Kronauer Lab

About the role

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is seeking a Research Technician I to join the Kronauer Laboratory at Rockefeller University. The Kronauer Lab studies the behavior, ecology, evolution, and neurobiology of social insects, with a particular focus on ants. This is a role well-suited for someone seeking a long-term position and looking to grow within a stable, productive research environment. This unique position combines laboratory operations, ant colony husbandry, and research support within a highly collaborative scientific environment. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, is excited about working with insects, and wants to contribute to the day-to-day success of a world-class research laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Maintain ant colonies on a regular schedule, including watering, feeding, cleaning, and general husbandry.
• Absorb and maintain research ant colonies.
• Manage colony storage procedures, including placing designated colonies into freezer storage and returning them according to established schedules.
• Monitor colony health and ensure husbandry protocols are consistently followed.
• Assist and collaborate with other laboratory personnel and team members as needed on a variety of research projects that span from behavioral tracking to genome engineering.
• Absorb and maintain research colonies.
• Attend lab meetings and scientific discussions to learn and participate about ongoing research projects.
• Collaborate with lab members on ongoing research projects spanning behavioral tracking, genome engineering, and other areas of active investigation — with the understanding that research involvement will grow over time as husbandry and operational tasks become more routine.
• Receive, unpack, and organize laboratory deliveries.
• Notify laboratory personnel of incoming materials and deliveries.
• Perform routine laboratory maintenance, including dishwashing, bottle preparation, restocking supplies, and maintaining inventories of laboratory consumables.
• Absorb and assist with general operational support to keep laboratory workflows running smoothly.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Comfortable working with insects and animal husbandry tasks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Enthusiasm for learning and supporting scientific research.

Qualifications

• Required qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Comfortable working with insects and animal husbandry tasks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Enthusiasm for learning and supporting scientific research.
• Preferred qualifications:
• 0-2 years of relevant experience in laboratory operations, animal care, husbandry, research support, or related environments.
• Previous experience working with insects, animals, husbandry, laboratory operations, or research environments.
• Prior laboratory or research experience is helpful but not required.
• Biology, neuroscience, ecology, entomology, or other science-related backgrounds are welcome but not required.

Physical Requirements

• Remaining 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.
• 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.

What We Provide

• Meaningful professional experience within a world-renowned research organization.
• Exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and laboratory operations.
• Opportunities to explore interests in biology, neuroscience, animal behavior, and scientific research.
• Participation in lab meetings and scientific discussions.
• Mentorship and networking opportunities with researchers, technicians, postdoctoral fellows, and scientific staff.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment.
• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

Pay and Benefits

• Compensation Range: $19.24 (minimum) - $24.09 (midpoint) - $31.29 (maximum)
• Pay Type: Hourly
• HHMI’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 consistency when making job offers.
• Typical, 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.
• We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.