"Research Lab Technician Lead"

Work under the direction of an investigator in cardiovascular research to achieve the goals of a sponsored project in a laboratory setting. The overall goal of the project is to develop new treatments for patients with heart muscle disorders (primarily hypertrophic, arrhythmogenic, and other types of inherited cardiomyopathy). These disorders are a cause of heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden death in both children and adults. The lab uses a range of model systems to better understand these conditions and to develop and test treatments. In particular, we use human cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). We engineer these cell lines with CRISPR technologies and are testing gene therapy and other approaches. These projects involve a significant amount of molecular biology, cloning, cell culture, and microscopy.

This position will be responsible for 1) performing molecular biology techniques, including cloning, biochemical assays, PCR, RNA/DNA extractions, etc., 2) performing cardiomyocyte cell culture techniques, including re-plating cardiomyocytes onto engineered substrates for subsequent live cell microscopy, 3) performing microscopic analyses both for live cardiomyocyte tissues and for fixed immunofluorescence quantifications. The position will include some back-up responsibilities for other roles in the lab, mouse colony handling and regular iPSC culture.

• (~30%) Perform molecular biology assays, including DNA extraction, RNA extraction, genotyping, PCR, gel electrophoresis, biochemical assays, recombinant DNA cloning, and qRT-PCR.
• (~30%) Generate cardiomyocyte tissues and perform microscopy on these cardiac tissues – these experiments will include culture of iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, delivery of viral vectors and treatments, and fabrication of engineered substrates for tissues.
• (~20%) Perform live cell microscopy of human cardiac tissues, immunostaining and imaging of fixed cardiac tissues, subsequent image analysis and quantification using standardized pipelines developed in the lab.
• (~10%) Routine laboratory maintenance including ordering and restocking, biohazard waste autoclaving and disposal, and dishwashing.
• (~5%) Back-up other positions in the lab, including routine iPSC culture and mouse colony maintenance.
• (~5%) Regularly communicate and coordinate with other team members to perform experiments in mouse models. Participate in weekly lab meetings.

The applicant should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a biological or related field. At least 1 year of prior laboratory experience is required. Prior experience with basic molecular biology techniques, including PCR and genotyping techniques, is required. Ability to perform precise fine motor manipulations of engineered substrates is required (although no specific experience with these fabrications is required as training in the techniques will be provided). Other requirements include excellent organizational skills, perseverance, the ability to keep detailed notes, meticulous attention to details, excellent verbal and written English language skills, and an eagerness to work as an integrated team player which may include teaching rotating students and fellows. The applicant must demonstrate strong motivation and work ethic to master new skills. A minimum 2-year commitment is also requested.

Both a CV and a cover letter including the candidate's background and goals in taking this position is encouraged with the application. Cell culture and/or microscopy experience are desired but not mandatory (training in all of the above techniques will be given).

The work schedule will be standard business hours Monday through Friday. Flexible hours for covering on 1-2 half weekend days per month if needed for cell culture and experimental protocols. Location is on-site only (medical research campus).