Research Technician I

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center•Seattle, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Talbot Lab is recruiting a curious and motivated Research Technician I to join a research program centered on the enteric nervous system and its role in intestinal physiology. Our central aim is to understand how neuroimmune circuits — the functional interactions between neurons and immune cells — coordinate immune responses and metabolic functions in the gut. Using a combination of genetic, pharmacologic, cellular, and molecular approaches, our team investigates how neurons and immune cells communicate in the intestine, how microbial and dietary cues activate enteric neurons, and how these circuits regulate processes such as immune surveillance and nutrient absorption. The work sits at the intersection of neuroscience, immunology, microbiology, nutrition, and gastroenterology, and aims to clarify how cellular circuits integrate diverse physiological signals. A longer-term goal of this research is to identify strategies that leverage the modulation of enteric neurons to address gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, enteric infections, malabsorption disorders, and metabolic dysfunction. The successful candidate will work closely with the PI and other lab members on bench-based experimental projects, contribute intellectually and technically to ongoing studies, and play a meaningful role in the lab's daily operations. We are looking for someone who is genuinely engaged by the science, takes ownership of their work, and thrives in a collaborative, learning-focused environment. Research Technicians in our lab are expected to develop into independent contributors over time and can contribute to publications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in related scientific field or equivalent combination of education and experience
Demonstrated scientific knowledge in the area of study
Demonstrated basic laboratory skills
Strong attention to detail, careful record-keeping, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

2 years' experience working in a research laboratory (e.g., as an undergraduate researcher or post-baccalaureate trainee).
A working knowledge of standard techniques in at least one of the following areas: molecular biology or microbiology (e.g., nucleic acid isolation and manipulation, PCR, cloning, protein isolation and purification), neuroscience (e.g., stereotaxic manipulation and injections) or immunology (e.g., flow cytometry, cell staining).
Prior experience working with animal models.
Experience with any vertebrate or invertebrate model (e.g., mouse, zebrafish, Drosophila ).
Prior experience with neuroscience, immunology, or mouse husbandry is not required.

Responsibilities

Work in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator to advance the scientific goals of the lab while developing the capacity to operate independently on assigned projects.
Contribute to the daily operation and organization of the laboratory, including responsibilities related to lab safety, ordering, inventory, and record-keeping.
Perform bench-level experiments using a range of techniques, including: Operation and maintenance of analytical instruments (e.g., flow cytometers and FACS sorters).
Collection, organization, and verification of experimental data.
Quantitative analysis, including the preparation of figures, graphs, and summary reports.
Coordinate care of the laboratory mouse colony, including breeding, weaning, and genotyping.
Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and project discussions, with the expectation of engaging actively in the scientific reasoning behind experiments.