Research Technician - Tool Translation Team

Summary:

We are seeking a chemist to join the Tool Translation Team, "T3", a Janelia Project Team that collaborates with labs across Janelia to develop molecular research tools enabling novel biological investigations. The team includes experts in chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology, and microscopists who work collaboratively to develop and refine new technologies that enable biological discovery. Guided by the T3 Advisory Committee and working closely with the Lavis Lab, T3 tackles projects with 6-12 month timeframes in different areas of science. This position will contribute to HHMI’s AI@HHMI initiative—a $500 million, decade-long effort to embed artificial intelligence throughout the research process—by supporting AI-driven projects through the creation of advanced chemical reagents.

About the role:

As a member of the team, you will focus on chemical synthesis, particularly designing and synthesizing reactive fluorescent dyes, fluorogenic enzyme substrates, and other small-molecule tools for biological research. Most of your time will be spent conducting multistep organic synthesis and characterizing compounds, with additional work in conjugation and protein chemistry as needed.

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.

• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, free gyms, available on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service to Janelia from the Washington D.C. metro area.

What you’ll do:

• Carry out multistep syntheses of organic molecules including reaction setup, workup, purification, and analysis of products.

• Perform conjugation of small molecules to proteins, nucleic acids, and inorganic materials such as gold nanoparticles. May work with biological samples such cells or tissue for experimental purposes.

• Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data in a laboratory notebook.

• Use software tools to analyze and format data, formulate conclusions, create statistical summaries and visualizations, and contribute to written or oral progress reports for publication or presentation.

• Energetically interact with other Janelia scientists with the goal of initiating collaborative projects regarding the use and implementation of molecular research tools.

• Configure, operate, and maintain laboratory apparatus and instruments.

• Order chemicals, reagents, and other laboratory 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 is required.

• Two years of chemistry research experience preferred.

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

• 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.

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.

Compensation Range

Tech I: $18.40 (minimum) - $23.03 (midpoint) - $29.93 (maximum)

Tech II: $45,760.00 (minimum) - $57,200.00 (midpoint) - $74,360.00 (maximum)

Pay Type:

Tech I: Hourly

Tech II: Annual

HHMI’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.

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