About the Role:
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.
Application Instructions:
Please include your CV (with GPA listed at the top) along with a 1-page cover letter addressing the following:
Why are you interested in this position?
What do you hope to learn from this role?
Why do you believe you are a strong candidate for the position?
What potential start dates would work for you?
What are your short- and long-term career goals (including your ideal timeline for next steps)?
What we provide:
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 you’ll do:
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.
What you bring:
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
Prior mouse handling experience a plus (breeding, weaning and maintaining lines, tail DNA prep)
Tissue culture of mammalian cells and molecular cloning skills preferred
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
Physical Requirements
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.
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.
Compensation Range
$19.24 (minimum) - $24.09 (midpoint) - $31.29 (maximum)Pay Type:
HourlyHHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.
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