Job Description

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 seeking a Research Technician to join the lab of Dr. Scott Sternson at The University of California, San Diego (UCSD). The Sternson lab’s research investigates how the brain controls appetite.  They study multiple circuits throughout the brain as well as the interactions between neural systems that mediate hunger, thirst, and stress. Critical to this effort, the lab develops cutting-edge deep-brain calcium imaging methods that are integrated with spatial transcriptomic techniques to build a rigorous, systematic framework for the cellular and molecular components of the entire sequence of appetite behaviors (food-seeking, consumption, satiety). More information can be found on their website .

About the Research Technician role:
The ideal candidate is an organized, proactive professional who will support a team of postdoctoral fellows with their research projects by performing histological and imaging work in support of the lab’s science. Each position within the lab makes valued contributions that drive science forward.  We are ideally targeting someone who is enthusiastic and passionate about research and would take pride in the work they do within a cutting-edge scientific lab.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking for a robust career experience of at least 2 years before moving on to the next stage of their educational or professional path.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Joining the vibrant UCSD research community.

• Full access to HHMI’s on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars, led by members of our learning and organization development team.

• Opportunities for mentorship and professional development.

• The potential to contribute to research publications.

What you’ll do:

• Develop and perform new high-precision RNA-FISH protocols in large tissue volumes

• Perform selective plane illumination microscopy (“light sheet” imaging)

• Collect multi-terabyte image data sets and conduct analysis

• Assist with cell culture work, as well as perform basic molecular biology techniques in support of experiments within the lab

• Prepare and present written or oral progress reports concerning studies, including assembly, organization, and interpretation of data.

• Present data to the entire lab (lab meetings happen ~1-2 times a week).

• Train others in technical protocols.

• May assist scientists and technicians by performing various investigative procedures and operating scientific equipment.

• Eventually take on protocol design and other strategic experimental work within the lab

• Attend laboratory meetings and planning sessions

What you bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in life science is required.

  • A master’s degree would be a plus but is not required.

• At least one year of prior experience working in a hands-on academic research lab is required.

• Prior experience with any type of histology work (RNA-FISH or in brain preferred, but not required)

  • Prior experience with histology in brain tissue would be a strong plus.

• Extensive experience with confocal imaging or selective plane illumination microscopy (“light-sheet” imaging) is preferred.

• Strong computer skills are required.

  • Experience with ImageJ and/or any programming experience would be a plus.

• Ability to keep accurate records of work performed.

• Desire to actively seek opportunities to increase skills and expertise.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to collaborate well with other team members.

• Ability to learn complex tasks with general instruction.

• Ability to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques.

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. #LI-NG1

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.

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time,

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