Research Technician - Wilson Lab
Company: Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
Location: Boston
Posted on: April 16, 2024
Job Description:
Primary Work Address: Dept. of Genetics, Boston, MA,
02115Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday
account.The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the
discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As
a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports
a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students,
and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of
biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.We are
currently looking for a Research Technician to join the lab of Dr.
Rachel Wilson at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Wilson and her team of
scientists are working to understand how the brain performs
fundamental computations related to navigation, spatial memory, and
visuo-motor control. They use the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster
to investigate these questions using genetic tools and analyses of
large-scale connectome data to target specific cells for
investigation. Neural activity is monitored using in vivo
intracellular electrophysiological recordings and calcium imaging
while flies navigate in virtual reality environments. Because many
neural systems in various species face the same constraints, it is
likely that the lessons we learn from this simple brain will
provide clues to understanding similar problems in more complex
brains, including the human brain. More information about the lab
and their work can be found by visiting About the Research
Technician role:Recently, new genetic tools have emerged which open
the door to new experiments that were never before possible. To use
these tools, we need a team member to assist us in screening
genetically modified flies and generating novel genetic
combinations. This position offers the opportunity to learn
cutting-edge neuroscience techniques, to become broadly
knowledgeable about neuroscience, and to work as part of a
tight-knit team of energetic, experienced research scientists - an
ideal fit for a hardworking, passionate individual who is looking
for a robust 2+ year career experience with the lab before
beginning graduate school, medical school, or the next step of
their professional journey. What we provide:
- A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health
and welfare benefits
- The opportunity to learn new techniques and expand your
knowledge and skills
- A warm and supportive lab culture that prioritizes integrity
and cooperation
- 1:1 training in genetics, imaging, and bioinformatics
- Opportunities to co-author research publications
- Career mentorship, including assistance in preparing for
graduate school
- Access to the extended Harvard community, including seminars,
courses, and social eventsWhat you'll do:
- Visually screening databases of anatomical images of Drosophila
brain cell types
- Genetic engineering to combine transgenes from different
genetically-modified Drosophila to create novel brain labeling
patterns
- Dissecting brains and performing immunostaining protocols to
label genetically-tagged brain cells
- Optimizing immunostaining protocols for new cell types and new
genetic markers Imaging labeled brains using laser-scanning
multicolor confocal microscopy.
- Analyzing confocal images by comparing them with large-scale
electron microscopy data
- Logging data into a shared information-storage system for other
team members to view
- Contributing ideas to group discussions about research
strategy
- Contributing feedback to manuscripts
- Training other team members in these job tasksWhat you bring:
- A bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biological/life sciences,
engineering, computer science, math, or a related field is
required.
- A minimum of either one year of part-time research experience
or three months of full-time research experience
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication
skills
- Attention to detail, transparency, and rigor
- Enthusiasm for continuous learning in a fast-paced and complex
work environment
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.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.Please 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$17.72 (minimum) - $22.16
(midpoint) - $28.77 (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
Keywords: Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Somerville , Research Technician - Wilson Lab, Healthcare , Boston, Massachusetts
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