Research Technician - Ecker Lab
HHMI is seeking a self-motivated Research Technician to join the lab of Prof. Joseph Ecker at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. A primary goal of the Ecker lab is to develop novel technologies that can reveal new insights into plant biology. A current focus of the group is to understand how different plant tissues regulate their gene expression. Along these lines, the successful applicant will help conduct research into understanding how different plant tissues grow and respond under environmental stress. They will be trained in a range of cutting-edge scientific techniques, such as genomic library preparation, single cell sequencing, and plant growth assays. They will also be encouraged to help design studies and ultimately to conduct independent research experiments. This role is ideal for those who would like to gain laboratory and computational techniques before moving onto graduate school.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Assist scientists by performing various research procedures and operating a variety of instruments and other scientific equipment.
- Conduct high throughput genomic library preparation.
- Conduct molecular biological procedures (RNA purification, PCR and cloning).
- Perform plant genetic transformation and selection, general plant care and growth room maintenance.
- Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data; perform calculations and prepare charts, graphs, and reports. Can use software applications to assemble, manipulate and/or format data.
- Configure and operate laboratory apparatus and instruments; read and record instrument data; tabulate data; keep laboratory records.
- May participate in performing regular maintenance for equipment.
- Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
- Maintain plants and/or bacterial and tissue cultures for experimental purposes.
- Maintain knowledge of current developments in research area through reading applicable literature and utilizing online resources.
In addition to the duties specifically identified by this job description, the position will include other duties if and as assigned by the direct supervisor or others with supervisory authority over this position.
Scope
- Contributes to research results on an on-going basis. Usually conducts routine aspects of research projects. Influences short range and limited scope activities.
- Organizes projects within workload to ensure goals are met.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor of Science degree in an appropriate field or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
Experience
- Some related laboratory experience preferred.
- Proficiency in statistical computing (such as R), or a willingness to learn, is a plus.
Skills and Abilities
- Generally experienced in job duties and in the principles and practices associated with those duties with an understanding of the underlying scientific principles.
- Ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a diverse population.
- Ability to draft routine reports and keep accurate records of work performed.
- Actively seeks opportunities to increase skills and expertise.
- Able to learn complex tasks with general instruction. Able to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques.
- Able to train others in specialized tasks as directed by supervisor.
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.
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.