Howard Hughes Medical Institute: Research Technician – Perrimon Lab

Primary Work Address: Dept.

of Genetics, Boston, MA, 02115Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.We are seeking a Research Technician to support the lab of Dr.

Norbert Perrimon in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School.

Overall, the lab seeks to understand how cells, tissues, and organs communicate during development, and how complex phenotypes arise in animals.

More information can be found on the lab website: https://perrimon.Med.Harvard.Edu/.The Research Technician will work as part of a biomedical technology research group within the lab developing state-of-the-art tools and methods for insect cell-based studies, including in the area of CRISPR cell screening in Drosophila cell lines and mosquito cell lines.

They will provide support on research projects including defining the scope of the projects, researching the scientific topics and technologies, and implementing appropriate solutions that meet project timelines.

These projects are innovative in approach and scale and focus on diverse fundamental and human health-relevant topics that can benefit from a cross-species approach and/or from direct experimentation in insect cells.

Recent projects of the type that the candidate would be joining include projects focused on cancer cell biology, the functions of specific cellular organelles, cellular responses to cytotoxic drugs and other toxins, and mosquito cell activities relevant to their roles as hosts for pathogens.Day-to-day, the candidate will work primarily on individual projects while functioning as part of an integrated and collaborative team.

The ability to carry out assigned projects is further supported by access to state-of-the-art cell culture facilities, equipment, and other resources within the lab and at core facilities on our campus.

Although the main focus of the position is benchwork, the candidate will also participate in monthly technology-focused group meetings and have the option to participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and relevant seminars.

The ideal candidate is a motivated, well-organized, and committed laboratory research technician with prior wet lab experience.We are open to considering candidates looking to stay within the lab at least 2-3 years before moving on to graduate or medical school, or candidates that are seeking a long-term, stable position who are passionate about contributing to the lab’s full research portfolio.

Principal Responsibilities:Work efficiently and cooperatively with a team of researchers conducting cell-based studies, including employing the followingCell cultureCRISPR-based genome engineeringMolecular biology to generate and analyze plasmid DNAHelp modify insect cells using CRISPR and transposon technologiesHelp develop new cell-based assays using FACS, imaging or other readoutsPerform pooled CRISPR screens in insect cells to identify biologically relevant target genesMaintain precise records of work and appropriately manage digital data generated in the workAssist with open sharing of know-how and resources with collaborators and with the community at large, such as by preparing detailed protocols or sharing materials with repositoriesAssist with other support duties relating to lab management and operations as requiredQualifications:Bachelor’s degree in the life sciences or related discipline (or equivalent education and experience)Previous cell culture experience is required (mammalian or insect cells)Previous experience with the following molecular biological techniques and familiarity with underlying scientific principles is preferred:Molecular biology techniques (PCR, Gibson and other cloning methods, gel electrophoresis) to generate and quality analyze plasmid DNA and RNA reagentsAbility to draft accurate scientific reportsAbility to apply experience to new techniques and protocols and learn complex tasks with general instructionStrong enthusiasm for developing new skills and expertiseProficiency with Microsoft Office applicationsExcellent oral and written communication skillsExemplary organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to use good judgment in managing deadlines and responding to inquiriesDetail oriented with highly accurate work productAbility to follow instruction with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and bementoredPhysical 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 manipulateobjects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hearwithin 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.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 NoteThis 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.HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer