Research Technician - Littman Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute • University Center, VA

8d • $19 - $31 • Onsite

About The Position

The Littman laboratory at New York University is seeking a dynamic, driven, and curious Research Technician to join our group. We are funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), a biomedical research organization that supports academic researchers, educators and students in the quest of uncovering fundamental principles in biology and biomedical sciences and building a diverse and inclusive scientific community. The Littman lab investigates how T lymphocytes acquire functional properties during development and in response to distinct intestinal microbiota and dietary antigens that influence systemic inflammatory processes (e.g. T cell-mediated autoimmune and allergic diseases, cancer, and responses to infection with pathogenic microbes). We also study how the immune system and the microbiota interact with the enteric and central nervous systems at homeostasis and under pathological conditions. More information on the lab can be found on our website: https://www.littmanlab.org We are looking for someone with a strong background in the sciences who is passionate about furthering our understanding in these newly emerging areas. This individual will be an integral member of the lab, working with a dynamic and diverse group of scientists in the areas of immunology, microbiome, neuroimmunology, single cell genomics, transcriptional regulation, and mouse genetics. This position will involve working with multiple researchers to support their science, so we are looking for someone comfortable managing multiple priorities and with excellent time management skills. Ideal candidates will be self-driven, creative, and willing to tackle novel challenges. They will have the opportunity to develop an independent research project. This is an ideal opportunity for a recent college graduate who would like to gain more hands-on research experience in an academic laboratory environment before attending graduate school in the biological sciences. We are ideally targeting candidates looking to stay within the lab for 2-3 years before moving on. A number of our previous technicians have made important contributions to research projects resulting in co-authorship on scientific publications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in life science, preferably with courses in molecular and cell biology and immunology or neuroscience
• Background training and knowledge of molecular and cell biology
• Prior experience working in a hands-on research lab for at least one year
• Knowledge of basic laboratory practices and techniques
• Strong interpersonal skills, in addition to the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Excellent analytical, communication, and computer skills, with attention to detail
• Strong self-motivation with excellent time management and organizational skills
• Passion for science and continuous education, actively seeking opportunities to increase skills and expertise
• Ability to learn complex tasks with instruction, and to use experience to perform a variety of 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

• Prior mouse handling experience a plus (breeding, weaning and maintaining lines, tail DNA prep)
• Tissue culture of mammalian cells and molecular cloning skills preferred

Responsibilities

• Cooperate with lab members in performing experiments in molecular biology, immunology, immune-nervous system interactions, and the microbiome
• Help with maintenance and organization of lab mouse strains, including DNA extraction and PCR from isolated mouse tissue for genotyping
• Perform a variety of laboratory and investigative procedures with mouse models, including colonizing mice with defined microbiota, performing cell transfers into mice, harvesting and processing of mouse tissues for flow cytometry, genomics, and imaging studies
• Culture and maintain mammalian cell culture lines, and use standard molecular biology techniques, including CRISPR technology, to modify genes in primary immune system cells
• Collect, verify, record and compile data and information, keeping a detailed electronic notebook
• Assist with experimental design and establishing new protocols and maintaining lab equipment
• Instruct others in basic laboratory techniques
• Help with lab organization and other support duties relating to lab operations as required, while looking for ways to improve lab processes
• Participate in laboratory meetings and read literature applicable to the research area
• The successful candidate will perform tasks related to the research project independently while under the guidance and mentorship of the supervisor.

Benefits

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits
• An opportunity to broaden research experience in a collaborative environment
• One-on-one mentorship relationships
• Professional and educational development opportunities
• A vibrant and inclusive lab and research community

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level