Research Technician - Sehgal Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute•Philadelphia, PA

1d•$17 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

The Sehgal Lab, led by Dr. Amita Sehgal at the University of Pennsylvania, focuses on the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying sleep and circadian rhythms. The lab uses a combination of model organisms, including Drosophila and mouse models, to better understand how biological clocks regulate behavior and physiology. The team is highly collaborative and provides a strong training environment for early-career scientists interested in gaining hands-on research experience. The Research Technician I will support ongoing research focused on the genetic and molecular analysis of sleep and circadian rhythms. This role is ideal for a recent graduate seeking 2–3 years of hands-on research experience prior to pursuing a Master’s, PhD, or MD. The position offers exposure to a wide range of experimental techniques and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to active research projects in a dynamic lab environment. It is best suited for early-career candidates looking to gain research experience before pursuing advanced education. The ideal start timeline for this position is July 2026.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in life sciences or a related field required
0–1 year of research experience (undergraduate research strongly preferred)
Background in molecular biology and/or cell biology
Experience with PCR, Western blotting, or similar assays
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced lab environment
Highly organized with attention to detail
Goal-oriented, with interest in pursuing graduate or medical school
Motivated, proactive, and eager to learn new techniques
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.

Nice To Haves

Experience with microscopy preferred
Experience working with animal models (mouse or Drosophila), including breeding/genotyping, preferred
Exposure to behavioral assays is a plus

Responsibilities

Assist with day-to-day research activities and support lab members with experiments
Perform Drosophila and/or mouse husbandry, including breeding and genotyping
Conduct behavioral assays and assist with data collection and analysis
Perform molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, and other assays
Support tissue culture and sample preparation for histology
Utilize microscopy for imaging and analysis as needed
Assist with general lab operations, including preparing media/reagents and receiving supplies
Collaborate closely with senior research staff on experimental setup and execution