Research Technician I - Pediatrics Genetics
About The Position
The Greer lab is interested in how non-genetic information can be transmitted across generations and how non-genetic information regulates complex phenotypes. An increasing number of complex phenotypes, such as physical appearance, energy metabolism, psychological state, and longevity, have recently been shown to be regulated, in part, by epigenetic information. Epigenetics describes how gene expression changes occur without changes to the DNA sequence. Proteins, RNA molecules, or chemical modifications to histones or DNA can induce these epigenetic changes. How this information, which is not directly coded in our DNA, is passed from generation to generation is still unknown. Understanding the molecular determinants of stable epigenetic memory will provide insight into how environmental changes can affect the health and lifespan of not only the individual who experiences them, but also of their progeny. Our goals are to identify epigenetic inheritance phenotypes and to elucidate the mechanisms behind their transmission across generations. We also aim to understand how epigenetic mis-regulation can cause developmental defects and disease. In the Greer lab we use the nematode C. elegans, the social amoeba Dictyostelium, mice, and mammalian tissue culture systems to study how non-genetic information can be transmitted across generations as well as to understand the role of non-genetic information in regulating a variety of biological processes. We use a wide variety of genetic, biochemical, and molecular techniques to decipher these complex question. Some experiments would entail worm, Dictyostelium, or mouse husbandry, extracting gDNA and proteins from worm and tissue samples, running dot blots and western blots, purifying proteins and testing their enzymatic activity. The Greer lab strives to be a place of fun, collegiality, and collaboration. Assists with laboratory duties in a research setting; performs routine tests with direction from the supervisor, manager or higher-level technician.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent high school certification or combination of education and/or experience.
- No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.
- No specific work experience is required for this position.
- Not Applicable
- A driver's license is not required for this position.
Nice To Haves
- Prior research experience with any of the following: tissue culture, C. elegans, Dictyostelium discoideum, or mice.
Responsibilities
- Assists the investigator or higher-level technician with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
- Maintains files on research and assists with data entry.
- Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
- Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
- Free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
- Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
- Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
- 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child.
- Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs.
- Adult care resources.
- Tuition coverage for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
