Research Laboratory Technician Intermediate

Both a CV and cover letter including the candidate’s background and goals in taking this position is encouraged with the application.

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 develop treatments. This position will be responsible for 1) managing mouse models of various experimental models of inherited cardiomyopathy, 2) performing experiments using these genetic models, including testing medications and/or gene therapies, 3) performing biochemical assays, genotyping, RNA/DNA extractions, and other molecular biology techniques, and 4) performing phenotypic assays on these models (e.g., histology, functional measurements on heart tissue).

• Perform molecular biology assays, including DNA extraction, RNA extraction, genotyping, PCR, gel electrophoresis, biochemical assays, recombinant DNA cloning, and qRT-PCR.
• Manage a mouse colony consisting of multiple genetic models of cardiomyopathy (multiple strains, crosses, and breeding schemes). Set up breeding cages to maintain mice and generate experimental mice. Stratify mice into randomized groups for medication and/or gene therapy experiments. Monitor and ensure colony health working closely with ULAM. Maintain database for mouse management in Excel with meticulous attention to detail.
• Administer medications to mice (including by food, water, gastric lavage) for experimental interventions. Track responses of medications across experimental groups. Coordinate procedures on experimental groups, such as echocardiograms, with core phenotyping services.
• Dissect post-mortem mice to obtain heart and other tissues for biochemical and functional analyses.
• Routine laboratory maintenance including ordering and restocking, biohazard waste autoclaving and disposal, and dishwashing.
• 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 B.S. degree in a biological or related field. B.S. degree in a biological or related field.
• 1 year of prior laboratory experience
• Prior experience with mouse colony management, basic molecular biology techniques, including PCR and genotyping techniques, is required.
• 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.
• Proficiency in Excel for the purpose of mouse colony management is required.
• The applicant must demonstrate strong motivation and work ethic to master new skills.
• A minimum 2-year commitment is also requested.

The work schedule will be standard business hours M-F. Flexible hours for covering on 1-2 half weekend days per month if needed for mouse husbandry/experimental protocols.