Research Technician I - Kronauer Lab
About The Position
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is seeking a Research Technician I to join the Kronauer Laboratory at Rockefeller University. The Kronauer Lab studies the behavior, ecology, evolution, and neurobiology of social insects, with a particular focus on ants. This is a role well-suited for someone seeking a long-term position and looking to grow within a stable, productive research environment. This unique position combines laboratory operations, ant colony husbandry, and research support within a highly collaborative scientific environment. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, is excited about working with insects, and wants to contribute to the day-to-day success of a world-class research laboratory. While prior research experience is welcome, the team is primarily seeking someone who is dependable, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and enthusiastic about supporting both the operational and scientific needs of the lab.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working with insects and animal husbandry tasks.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
- Enthusiasm for learning and supporting scientific research.
Nice To Haves
- 0-2 years of relevant experience in laboratory operations, animal care, husbandry, research support, or related environments.
- Previous experience working with insects, animals, husbandry, laboratory operations, or research environments.
- Prior laboratory or research experience is helpful but not required.
- Biology, neuroscience, ecology, entomology, or other science-related backgrounds are welcome but not required.
Responsibilities
- Maintain ant colonies on a regular schedule, including watering, feeding, cleaning, and general husbandry.
- Assist with the production and maintenance of research ant colonies.
- Manage colony storage procedures, including placing designated colonies into freezer storage and returning them according to established schedules.
- Monitor colony health and ensure husbandry protocols are consistently followed.
- Assist and collaborate with other laboratory personnel and team members as needed on a variety of research projects that span from behavioral tracking to genome engineering.
- Assist with the preparation and maintenance of research colonies.
- Attend lab meetings and scientific discussions to learn and participate about ongoing research projects.
- Collaborate with lab members on ongoing research projects spanning behavioral tracking, genome engineering, and other areas of active investigation — with the understanding that research involvement will grow over time as husbandry and operational tasks become more routine.
- Receive, unpack, and organize laboratory deliveries.
- Notify laboratory personnel of incoming materials and deliveries.
- Perform routine laboratory maintenance, including dishwashing, bottle preparation, restocking supplies, and maintaining inventories of laboratory consumables.
- Help ensure laboratory spaces remain clean, organized, and operational.
- Assist with general operational support to keep laboratory workflows running smoothly.
Benefits
- Meaningful professional experience within a world-renowned research organization.
- Exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and laboratory operations.
- Opportunities to explore interests in biology, neuroscience, animal behavior, and scientific research.
- Participation in lab meetings and scientific discussions.
- Mentorship and networking opportunities with researchers, technicians, postdoctoral fellows, and scientific staff.
- A collaborative and supportive team environment.
- A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
- competitive pay
- exceptional health benefits
- retirement plans
- time off
- a range of recognition and wellness programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
