Research Technologist 1

Position for a Research Technologist to support the activities of a neurobiology laboratory that works at the interface of genetics, neurophysiology, and behavior. This role involves conducting lab work and assisting in the design and execution of one or more specific phases of entire projects. Current projects requiring support involve transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9 editing, electrophysiology, and behavioral assays in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and in non-domesticated Drosophila species.

About the role

The primary responsibility will be to support one or more of the Lab’s ongoing projects by planning and executing molecular cloning, electrophysiology, cell culture, Drosophila transgenesis, and behavioral assays. Other scientific activities may include dissection/microscopy and genotyping. Administrative activities are expected to be limited and may include tracking and ordering lab supplies and general lab maintenance. Expected to present progress and data in scientific group meetings.

This is a full-time, 1-year renewable position based upon performance and funding availability, working 40 hours per week on-site.

Responsibilities

• Follows pre-defined protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Laboratory Practices, and conducts standard and repetitive experiments with basic trouble-shooting techniques.
• Sets up, operates, and maintains standard lab equipment.
• Molecular Biology:
  • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification, and expression
  • Plasmid preparation
  • Cloning and sequencing of DNA
• Animal:
  • Drosophila Husbandry (preferred)
• Cellular Biology:
  • Cell culture (preferred)
  • Electrophysiology (preferred)
• Histology:
  • Tissue fixation/staining
  • Immunohistochemistry
• Microscopy
• Administration:
  • Maintains detailed records of results, including collecting and entering data.
  • Analyzes, interprets, and presents results in charts and graphs for presentations and publications.
  • Searches scientific literature in support of research.
  • Tracks, summarizes, and verifies invoices for lab supply expenses.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses.
• Demonstrated ability to carry out laboratory experiments and follow detailed instructions as required by research protocol.
• Demonstrated manual dexterity, attention to detail, accuracy in record keeping, reliability, and responsibility to perform job duties.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work with animals (Drosophila fruit flies).

Qualifications

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in biology; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• Eagerness and ability to learn new techniques both individually and as a team member.
• Ability and eagerness to participate in the design of experiments under the supervision of the PI or fellows.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Good organizational skills and manual dexterity.
• Previous experience with physiology work or fruit flies is preferred.

Pay

The target hiring range for this position is $35,600 - $44,495 per year ($17.05 - $21.31 per hour). The salary offered will be determined by the applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Paid vacation, holidays, medical/sick leave, and parental leave.
• Tuition benefits for the employee and dependents.
• Pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care.
• Retirement savings options.
• Wellness programs.
• Work-life and wellness support, including flexible work arrangements (where possible), childcare, and senior/adult care resources.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.