Research Technician - Open Chemistry

Summary:

Open Chemistry is a collaborative research group whose mission is to produce and distribute small-molecule research tools to enablediscoveryscience around the world. Open Chemistry is associated with the Lavis Lab located at the Janelia Research Campus, a world-class research institution supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. For more information about Open Chemistry and the Lavis Lab, please visithttps://www.janelia.org/lab/lavis-lab

About the role: 

In this role, you will support the vision of Open Chemistry by designing and synthesizing fluorescent dyes and other small-molecule tools for biological research.You’llspend most of your time carrying out multistep synthesis and characterization of small-molecule organic compounds. This role also involves aliquoting compounds for world-wide sharing, sostrong organizational skills and attention to detail are important. This would be an excellent role for a recentbachelor’s degree-level graduate in the sciences who wants to spend 1–2 years in a dynamic research environment beforegraduateschool. Some experience in organic synthesis is desired but not essential—we will teach you what you need to know!

About Open Chemistry:

Members of the Open Chemistry team are embedded in the Lavis Lab, a leader in using organic chemistry tobuild tools for biological research. More information can be found here:https://www.janelia.org/lab/lavis-lab

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• One-on-one mentorship relationship with a senior researcher in the lab.

• A team that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment of collaboration.

Whatyou’lldo: 

• Carryout multistep syntheses of organic molecules including reaction setup, work-up, purification, and analysis of products. May work with biochemical samples such as DNA, RNA, or protein samples for experimental purposes.

• Collect, record,organizeand verify the accuracy of data in a laboratory notebook. Use software applications to assemble, formatdataand/or perform statistical analysis for eventual publication.

• Analyze data, formulateconclusionsand createappropriate statisticalpresentations, including graphs and charts, and prepare and presentwritten ororal progress reportsregardingstudies.

• Prepare, aliquot, andmaintaindye stocks for their distribution to research labs worldwide as part of HHMI’s commitment to open science.

• Energetically interact with other Janelia scientists with the goal ofinitiatingcollaborative projectsregardingthe use and implementation of molecular research tools.

• Configure,operate, andmaintainlaboratory apparatus and instruments.

• Order chemicals, reagents, andotherlaboratory supplies as needed.

• Participate in and actively contribute to laboratory meetings and planning sessions.

• Conduct literature reviews applicable to research areas.

What you bring: 

• A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field isrequired.

• Completion of college-level organic chemistry course and lab.

• Undergraduate research experience in chemistry or a related discipline is preferred.

• Experience with multi-step organic synthesis is preferred.

• Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong organizational skills and time management skills.

• Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.