Research Technician - Tool Translation Team

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
United States, Maryland, Chevy Chase
4000 Jones Bridge Road (Show on map)
June 12, 2024
Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147 Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders innovate research practices and technologies to solve biology's deepest mysteries. HHMI launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually enriching environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work. We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community. About the role: In this role, you will work with other team members and our collaborators in support of various efforts in the development, validation, and application of novel molecular research tools such as molecular sensors, affinity reagents, fluorescence labeling methods, and fluorescence dye use. This includes technical methods encompassing molecular biology, protein expression, protein purification, and various imaging modalities, among others. T3 supports the HHMI values of Excellence, Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, Inclusion, and Developing Others, and expects the candidate to also embrace those values. About the Department: T3 is a Janelia Project Team. We work in collaboration with other labs at Janelia to develop molecular research tools that drive the ability to answer novel biological questions. We work with organic chemists, cell biologists, imaging scientists, neuroscientists, developmental biologists, and physiologists in these efforts. Although we have a few internal projects that are consistent with our mission, most of our projects are from internal proposals that have been vetted by the T3 leadership and T3 Advisory Committee. The average T3 project duration is about 6 months with significant variability depending on the scope. What we provide: A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits. Mentorship relationship with senior researchers in the lab. The group currently has two MS degree and four PhD level team members with extensive experience. Exposure to a variety of research questions, goals, and experimental systems represented at Janelia. Janelia hosts frequent scientific conferences covering diverse topics and opportunities to meet and interact with fellow scientists worldwide. The opportunity to work in a well-funded pioneering research facility with exceptional supporting infrastructure and an outstanding culture of collaboration and open science. What you'll do: You will be the Team lead for one or more collaborative research projects. Project topics and goals vary depending on our current and dynamic portfolio of projects. Handle mammalian cell lines, nucleic acids, proteins, organic chemicals, and the instruments required for their application towards achieving defined goals. Interact personally with collaborating labs in determining needs, interpretation of data, and limited trouble shooting and experimental design. Review research activities and scientific literature to determine where new information, methods, or teamwork could positively impact projects and improve efficiency or project outcomes. Present data at T3 lab meetings several times a year to discuss progress, ideas, strategies, and goals. What you bring: A bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related field is required. Two years of related work experience. Fundamental skills in molecular and cellular biology bench science. Examples include the ability to accurately pipet, calculate reagent and buffer composition, an understanding of experimental controls and standards, among others. Experience in bioinformatics or Python scripts is helpful. Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Strong organizational skills, customer service skills, and time management skills. Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills. 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 $44,880.00 (minimum) - $56,100.00 (midpoint) - $72,930.00 (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. HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer