Research Technician - GENIE

About the Department:

Janelia's GENIE Project Team (short for Genetically ENcoded Indicators and Effectors) develops and optimizes cutting-edge protein-based fluorescent sensors for imaging various cellular processes. We have collaborated with Janelia Group Leaders to develop sensors for calcium, voltage and different neurotransmitters to monitor neural activity with high spatial and temporal resolution. We have a nascent effort to develop new sensors and effectors for cell biology, aligned with the aims of the 4D Cellular Physiology (4DCP) groups at Janelia. The team employs members with expertise in advanced molecular biology, protein engineering, high-throughput cell-based screening, in vivo imaging, and image analysis.

This Research Technician will conduct imaging screens of sensor performance using a mammalian cell culture system. They will operate robotic liquid handling devices to array libraries of sensor variants into cultured mammalian cells in multiwell plates. And they will operate and adapt a custom-built system to assay sensor responses to cellular stimulation. They will also participate in an ongoing effort to develop new screening methods for novel sensors and effectors of cell and tissue physiology, working with the 4DCP groups at Janelia.

What we provide:

• An intellectually ambitious environment that encourages creative thinking and problem-solving to tackle big problems that reshape scientific fields.

• Opportunity to engage with leading scientists across diverse subject areas.

• A diverse team looking forward to exploring how your unique background, talents, and interests could contribute to the GENIE Team's successes.

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• Professional development opportunities such as generous training and travel opportunities to scientific workshops and conferences

What you'll do:

• Perform DNA transfection and handling of tissue culture cells in biosafety level (BSL) 2.

• Conduct high-throughput cell-based screening assays.

• Setup, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments including microscopes, desktop computers, data acquisition (DAQ) and transistor-transistor logic (TTL) systems, LEDs, automated liquid handling robots, and incubators.

• Use, maintain, and create code for automation and data processing.

• Perform basic chemistry to prepare buffers and solutions.

• Record and communicate processes and results in laboratory notebooks, written reports, and oral presentations.

• Follow and maintain written laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Report the work done and the methods used to the Project Scientist.

• Contribute to team meetings and planning.

What you bring:

• Bachelor's degree in bioengineering or the life sciences.

• 4+ years of laboratory experience.

• Cell culture experience.

• Experience operating custom imaging systems and microscopes.

• Experience operating and programming liquid handling robotics.

• Familiarity with software control of general laboratory hardware.

• Experience independently troubleshooting complex systems.

• Programming experience, MATLAB and/or Python a plus.

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. 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.

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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

Pay Type:

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 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