Research Technician I - Ackerman Lab
HHMI is currently looking for a Research Technician to support the lab of Dr. Susan Ackerman at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) in San Diego, CA. The Ackerman Lab’s research centers on studying the mechanisms of neurological disease in mouse models. The lab works to identify and analyze the genes, pathways, and networks involved in the maintenance of neuronal homeostasis and age-related death of neurons in the central nervous system. More information about Dr. Ackerman and the lab can be found here: https://www.hhmi.org/scientists/susan-l-ackerman
About the role:
As a Research Technician, you are a highly motivated, organized, diligent individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You will (initially with supervision, then independently) maintain a large number of inbred, knockout, transgenic, and congenic mouse strains including genotyping. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent college graduate who has a strong interest in neuroscience or genetics and wishes to gain additional years of hands-on laboratory experience in a medium-sized collaborative laboratory.
What you’ll do:
- Maintain the lab’s various mouse strains and perform genotyping.
- Perform complex genetic mouse crosses and analyze offspring by histological, behavioral, and molecular techniques.
- Collect, record, organize and verify accuracy of data.
- Keep highly organized laboratory records and use databases to assemble, manipulate and/or format data.
- Assist with general mouse room and lab organization procedures.
- Order chemicals, reagents, and other laboratory supplies as needed.
- Organize projects within workload to ensure goals are met.
- Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
What you bring:
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field is required.
- Strong interest in neuroscience and/or genetics.
- At least 1-2 years of relevant laboratory experience is preferred.
- Animal husbandry experience is preferred.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite is required.
- Good understanding and skill with various laboratory techniques and methods.
- Ability and comfort with handling live mice.
- Ability and willingness to learn new techniques.
- Eagerness to grow professionally and train others as needed.
- Ability to be a team player with strong communication skills.
- Ability to work efficiently, be flexible, and be self-motivated.
- Ability to learn complex tasks with general instructions.
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.
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.