Research Specialist - Transgenics

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147

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The Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders innovate research practices and technologies to solve biology’s deepest mysteries. HHMI launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually enriching environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work. We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community.

Summary:

Our Gene Targeting & Transgenic Facility makes sophisticated gene targeting a turnkey service at a reasonable cost. We develop and experiment with new technologies to support research needs. We design and produce gene targeting, CRISPR/Cas9 and BAC transgenic constructs; we generate gene targeting animals using ES cell approach for the mouse and CRISPR/Cas9 and integrase approaches for the mouse and the rat; we cryopreserve and recover genetically modified mouse and rat lines. Learn more here.

About the role:

In this role, you will be responsible for generating constructs, performing ES cell targeting, and screening ES clones. You will prepare and test Crispr/Cas9 sgRNA for cutting efficiency. Additionally, you will derive ES cells and harvest fibroblast cells from mouse embryos. Your work will involve maintaining detailed and organized records of experimental procedures and results, conducting sequence analysis, and contributing to the interpretation of data. You will collaborate closely with colleagues to support the ongoing progress of projects.

What we provide:

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

• An opportunity to collaborate on groundbreaking science in a supportive environment.

• Pioneering research facility and highly collaborative working environment.

• Excellent training opportunities with on-site experts in cell biology, neuroscience, genetics, imaging, and computer science.

• Opportunities to attend various scientific workshops and conferences held at Janelia and travel support to conferences outside Janelia.

• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, a free gym, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service.

What you’ll do:

• Generate gene editing constructs utilizing techniques such as sub-cloning, In-Fusion/Assembly, and BAC recombineering (recombination-mediated genetic engineering).

• CRISPR/Cas9 sgRNA design, in vitro transcription, cut efficiency testing, and other mRNA preparation (such as Cas9 mRNA).

• Perform ES cell targeting, including ES cell electroporation, picking and screening ES cell clones, and expanding and freezing positive ES cell clones.

• Harvest fibroblast cells from mouse embryos and prepare feeder for ES cell culture.

• Derive ES cells from mouse blastocysts to generate new ES cell lines.

• Record, analyze, and interpret experimental results, providing troubleshooting expertise as needed.

• Perform other tasks as required to support ongoing projects.

What you bring:

• Master’s degree or a Ph.D in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, or a related life science field, with four years of lab-based research experience. Equivalent experience will also be considered.

• In-depth knowledge and strong technical skills in gene editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and the mouse ES cells approach (preferred).

• Proficiency in computer software for DNA sequence analysis and genome browsing is a plus.

• Experience with mouse handling (preferred).

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multitask and work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

• Flexibility in working hours, including availability to work weekends and holidays as required to meet experimental needs.

• Demonstrated ability to identify, evaluate, and present recommendations on new techniques.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to document and present to researchers, team members, and supervisor the status and results of pro