Research Technician - Histology

Intro:

Are you interested in playing a role in groundbreaking science? Do you want to contribute to the development of laboratory techniques that help research understand cell structure, cell interactions, and protein localization? Do you have exceptional attention to detail, steady hands, and dexterity when working with small and delicate specimens? If so, then this is a job for you.

About the role:

The Histology Shared Resource at HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus is searching for a Research Technician III. In this role, you will use your experience with whole animal and tissue fixation, sectioning, labeling, and mounting tissue for microscopic examination. In addition, you may collaborate with researchers to develop and optimize new techniques such as tissue clearing, expansion microscopy, and large-scale RNA labeling. All in support of research to develop new molecular tools and imaging, to understand neuronal circuits involved in natural behaviors, and to see how cells work and communicate across tissues and whole organisms.

An ideal candidate has a bachelors in a life science field and/or certification as a Histology Technician with lab experience and a foundational knowledge of neuroscience. We are seeking someone proficient in performing research-based histology techniques and experience handling fish and rodents, as well as previous experience troubleshooting and optimizing histology techniques and protocols.

What we provide:

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

• Gaining hands-on experiences and knowledge of various histology techniques in a collaborative and supportive research environment.

• Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops.

• Professional memberships to histology and core facility organizations.

What you’ll do:

• Interact and communicate directly with users during intake and completion of projects.

• Assist in training users on routine techniques and laboratory equipment.

• Perform whole animal fixation and tissue dissection of fish and rodents.

• Section, using vibratomes and cryostats, fixed and fresh-frozen tissue for histological experiments.

• Mount, stain, and cover tissue sections on microscope slides.

• Assist team members with techniques that require changing solutions at defined intervals.

• Perform standard tissue labeling techniques (e.g. H&E, silver stain, DAPI, etc).

• Perform immuno-histochemistry (IHC), in-situ hybridizations, or other labeling techniques on tissue sections.

• Assist with tissue clearing on whole mount specimens.

• Maintain detailed documentation of work performed.

• Read and follow established protocols. Assist in the optimization of protocols for new techniques and tissue types.

What you bring:

• Bachelors degree (Masters preferred) in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or other life science or HT (ASCP) certification. (An equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience will be considered.)

• 4 years of related laboratory experience.

• Preferred experience working in a shared resource or core facility.

• Demonstrated proficiency in the preparation of buffers and solutions.

• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of a vibratome and cryostat.

• Experience handling fish and rodents.

• Experience trouble-shooting protocols.

• Some experience as a project lead or point of contact.

• Ability to interact with collaborators at all levels, including senior scientific management, project scientists, Janelia lab heads, visitors (domestic and international), and scientific support staff.

• Strong communication skills to update team members, supervisors, and researchers on the status of projects and work in progress.

• Proven ability to work within time constraints to achieve experimental results.

• Strong time management 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.

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