Research Technician, Molecular Biology - Keeney Lab
The lab of Dr. Scott Keeney at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center/Sloan Kettering Institute is a collaborative environment that focuses on understanding the mechanism of meiotic recombination and determining how this process is coordinated with other events of meiotic prophase. Several projects in the lab focus on Spo11 (the protein that makes the DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) that initiate recombination), the proteins that interact with Spo11, the interactions of these proteins with meiotic chromosomes, and the mechanisms that regulate the timing, number, and location of DSB formation. They also study how DSBs are processed and repaired and they are seeking to expand knowledge of meiotic processes more generally through discovery of new genes important for germ cell function. The Keeney lab’s research uses both the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the mouse as model organisms. More information about the lab can be found by visiting their website at https://www.mskcc.org/research/ski/labs/scott-keeney
About the Research Technician role:
You are a curious, hard-working individual with demonstrated skills in molecular biology/biochemistry, a strong eye for detail, an eagerness to learn new techniques, a collaborative approach to scientific discovery, and a genuine passion for biology. You will perform duties related to many aspects of mouse husbandry, cell culture, and general lab operations. The team is ideally looking for someone who can commit to work within the lab for at least 2 years.
What we offer:
- A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
- The lab has a strong track record of technicians being co-authors on research publications.
- Flexibility to participate in scientific professional development as much or as little as the chosen candidate desires - Dr. Keeney is a strong, supportive advocate for career development of his team members.
What you'll do:
- Specific mouse husbandry duties may include: breeding, weaning, genotyping, tagging, health checks, general colony maintenance, and euthanasia.
- Under the direction of the Lab Manager, assist with support duties relating to lab management and operations (inventory management, ordering, equipment maintenance, general lab upkeep, etc.) – up to 30%-40% of time as needed.
- Culture cells using sterile technique.
- Keep meticulous laboratory records and communicate effectively and transparently about experiments.
- Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
- Stay up-to-date on literature relevant to research areas as required.
What you bring:
- Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field is required. The Keeney lab welcomes applications from both recent college graduates and more senior technician candidates. Compensation and job level/title will be commensurate with education, skills, and experience.
- Previous hands-on research experience in a laboratory is required.
- Knowledge of fundamental principles of genetics and molecular biology gained through coursework and prior laboratory research experience is required.
- Demonstrated experience with standard molecular biology techniques (cell and/or tissue culture, PCR, microscopy, cloning, etc.).
- Previous experience with mouse husbandry would be a plus.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse variety of people at all levels and from all backgrounds.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Strong sense of self-motivation with ability to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction.
- Eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.
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.
Compensation Range
$44,850.00 (minimum) - $56,100.00 (midpoint) - $72,910.00 (maximum)
Pay Type: Annual
HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.