Research Technician - Expansion Microscopy

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.

Intro:

AI@HHMI: HHMI is investing $500 million over the next 10 years to support AI-driven projects and to embed AI systems throughout every stage of the scientific process in labs across HHMI. The AI initiative will be centered at HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus. Janelia has been at the forefront of AI-driven research in biology for more than 15 years. Its forward-thinking structure, centralized funding, and collaborative culture make it ideally suited to take this bold leap forward. To learn more about the initiative, visit here.   

About the role:
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Technician with a bachelor’s degree in biology (or a related field of the life sciences) to support the development of cutting-edge Expansion Microscopy (ExM) technologies. This position will play a central part in advancing ExM-based methodologies for both invertebrate (Fly) and vertebrate (Fish) model organisms. This entry-level role is ideal for someone with prior undergraduate lab experience who is eager to learn and develop technical skills. The successful candidate will have some lab experience, work efficiently to accomplish tasks, and thrive in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, the ability to problem solve, and be able to work both independently and as part of a team.

What we provide:

• An opportunity to broaden research experience in a collaborative environment across interdisciplinary fields.

• An intellectually compelling environment that encourages broad thinking and problem-solving.

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

• Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops.

• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, free gyms, available on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service to Janelia from the Washington D.C. metro area.

What you’ll do:

• Perform routine lab tasks such as plasmid DNA purification and PCR reactions following established protocols

• Assist with tissue preparation, sample preparation, data collection, microscopy imaging and other basic experimental procedures

• Accurately document experimental procedures and results

• Support senior lab members with day-to-day research activities

• Work efficiently to complete assigned tasks and meet deadlines

• Collaborate effectively with lab members and contribute positively to a team-based environment

What you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (or related field of life sciences or chemistry) or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience.

• Prior hands-on lab experience obtained through undergraduate research, internships, or employment.

• Willingness to be trained and learn new techniques.

• Strong organizational skills, ability to follow instructions carefully, and attention to detail.

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