Research Scientist, Weissbourd Lab

MIT • Cambridge, MA

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Weissbourd lab is seeking a Research Scientist to study the neurobiology and behavior of the jellyfish Clytia hemisphaerica. The goal is to uncover principles of neural development and function in an outgroup to bilaterian animals. This role involves leading and contributing to advanced projects encompassing molecular and cell biology, computational biology, and behavioral studies. The lab aims to establish Clytia as a significant model organism for neurobiology, necessitating the application of cutting-edge techniques and the development of novel research strategies for this species. The position offers the opportunity to apply for grants.

Requirements

• PhD and postdoctoral training in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., neuroscience, genetics).
• Practical knowledge of key concepts in molecular and cellular biology.
• Wet-lab skills including molecular cloning, PCR, generating transgenic and mutant lines in model organisms using CRISPR, Tol2, etc.
• Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to learn new fields and techniques.
• Collaborative personality with good interpersonal skills.
• Strong scientific writing skills, including manuscript and grant writing.

Responsibilities

• Work independently to troubleshoot, evaluate, optimize, and document rigorous experiments.
• Design and build transgene constructs.
• Create and maintain transgenic jellyfish lines.
• Use transgenic lines to generate large datasets and efficiently test key hypotheses.
• Collaborate and interface within the lab and with other laboratories or core facilities.
• Effectively communicate and present project plans, results, and conclusions within the lab, to the institution, and to the broader scientific community.
• Train and mentor students and staff in scientific methods and practices.
• Write grant applications in collaboration with the PI.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree