Research Technician - Mougous Lab
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.
We are currently looking for an enthusiastic, detailed Research Technician for an exciting role working in the laboratory of Dr. Joseph Mougous at the University of Washington. This individual will work collaboratively with a multifaceted and interactive team that primarily investigates the mechanisms bacteria employ for interbacterial competition in complex communities such as the gut microbiome. More information about the Mougous lab can be found here: http://mougouslab.org
About the Research Technician role:
As the Research Technician, you will be working closely with a senior scientist in the lab to perform various molecular biology and microbiology techniques in support of experiments. There is the possibility to eventually work on your own independent project based on your capabilities and interest. This position will provide you with an excellent opportunity for scientific learning, further development of research skills, and direct mentorship in a diverse, intellectually stimulating environment – an ideal fit for a hardworking, passionate, self-motivated professional who is looking for a robust 2+ year work experience with the lab before beginning graduate school, medical school, or the next step of their career path.
The lab is flexible to hire at either the Research Technician I level or the Research Technician II level. Salary will be commensurate with the chosen candidate’s level of education, skills, and experience.
What we provide:
A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
Access to HHMI’s on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars taught by members of our learning and organization development team.
The opportunity to learn new techniques and expand your knowledge and skills.
Direct mentorship and training from a senior member of the lab team.
Becoming a part of the vibrant University of Washington research community.
Opportunities for professional development and growth, including the potential for co-authorship of publications.
What you’ll do:
Generating reagents and performing experiments to support the research of a senior scientist in the lab. Techniques employed for this work will include culturing bacteria, PCR, cloning, generating competent cells and performing transformations, and preparing libraries for next generation sequencing.
Some lab maintenance tasks including preparing media, maintaining a subset of the equipment in the lab, and assisting with package receiving and inventory.
Participating in lab meetings and small project group meetings (and presenting your findings regularly in the latter).
Maintaining a thorough lab notebook and generating initial analyses of your results, worked into clear figures or tables.
What you bring:
A bachelor's degree in the biological sciences is required. A major or focus on microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, or molecular biology would be a plus.
Experience with standard molecular biology techniques and sterile technique is required.
Previous hands-on research experience working in a laboratory is required.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and time management skills with strong attention to detail.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proactive and self-motivated mentality with an eagerness to learn and grow.
Strong computer skills with demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with current technologies used in a laboratory environment.
Compensation Range:
Research Technician I (hourly) – $18.52 (minimum) - $23.17 (midpoint) - $30.08 (maximum)
Research Technician II (hourly) – $22.56 (minimum) - $28.22 (midpoint) - $36.66 (maximum)
Pay Type: Hourly
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.
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.
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.