Research Technician II - Jin Lab

About the role

The Research Technician II role supports studies using genomic tools to investigate tissue development and homeostasis. This position involves mouse handling, molecular biology, genomics, cell culture, and single-cell sequencing-related workflows.

Responsibilities

• Perform mouse-related laboratory work, including handling, husbandry coordination, colony tracking, genotyping, tissue dissection/collection, and molecular analysis.
• Aid in CRISPR-based perturbation experiments, including reagent preparation, viral/vector-related workflows, sample collection, and genomic analysis.
• Carry out core molecular biology techniques, such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, and preparation of sequencing-related materials.
• Support single-cell genomics workflows, including nuclei/cell preparation, quality control, library preparation support, and sample submission for sequencing.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using sterile technique, including passaging, transfection/transduction support, and monitoring of cell health.
• Prepare, organize, and validate experimental reagents, such as plasmids, oligos, guide RNA libraries, buffers, and cell culture media.
• Record experimental procedures, sample information, and results accurately in laboratory notebooks and shared databases.
• Analyze and summarize experimental results, including genotyping outcomes, QC metrics, and molecular assay data, and troubleshoot routine issues related to sample quality, molecular assays, sequencing preparation, or cell culture conditions.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and reagent inventories, and coordinate with lab members on experimental timelines, animal use, sequencing submissions, and sample tracking to ensure efficient day-to-day lab operations.
• Adhere to institutional biosafety, animal research, and laboratory compliance policies, including required documentation and training.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in the life sciences is required.
• Candidates with master’s degrees are also welcome to apply and will be considered.
• A minimum of 2-4 years of relevant research experience in an academic laboratory environment is required.
• Prior experience with mouse handling, mouse colony management, tissue collection, genotyping, or related animal research procedures.
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, or preparation of sequencing-related samples.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, cell passaging, transfection, viral transduction, or cell-based assays.
• Familiarity with genomics or single-cell sequencing workflows would be a plus.
• Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols, maintain organized records, and accurately track samples and reagents.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision, troubleshoot routine experimental issues, and adapt standard procedures when needed.
• Willingness to work with mouse models and comply with institutional animal research, biosafety, and laboratory safety requirements.

Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communications skills, interpersonal skills, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to contribute to fostering and maintaining a positive, thriving lab culture.

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.