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Research Technicians - Zipursky Lab

Employer
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Location
Los Angeles, CA
Closing date
Aug 6, 2022

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Sector
Pharmaceutical, Laboratory
Organization Type
Corporate
Primary Work Address: 405 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1662

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We are currently looking for 2-3 enthusiastic, self-motivated Research Technicians to work full-time in the lab of Dr. Larry Zipursky on-site at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Wiring an animal brain requires a large number of neuron-types to connect in precise patterns. The Zipursky lab (https://zipursky.dgsom.ucla.edu/pages/) uses state of the art genomics, genetics and molecular biology approaches to study how neurons are able to make highly specific connections. Using the fruit fly and mouse as model systems, the lab's studies have uncovered key principles of wiring and their underlying molecular basis. Research Technicians will contribute to furthering our understanding of the mechanisms controlling brain wiring and publish their findings in high impact studies.

Specifically, the Research Technicians will support postdoctoral fellows and other senior-level team members with research projects involving genetics, molecular biology, molecular neuroscience, optogenetics, calcium imaging, various light microscopic techniques (e.g. confocal, 2 photon, and light sheet), computational studies, and single-cell sequencing. This is an ideal opportunity for recent college graduates who wish to gain approximately 2+ additional years of hands-on research experience in a highly collaborative academic laboratory before moving on to graduate school, medical school, or an MD/PhD program in the biological sciences.

Principal Responsibilities:
  • Under the supervision of one or more postdocs, support research projects involving genetics, molecular biology, molecular neuroscience, computational studies, and single-cell sequencing.
  • Utilize a variety of modern neuroscience tools to perform necessary experiment-related tasks.
  • Keep accurate records of data and analyze data as required.
  • Participate regularly in weekly lab meetings.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Qualifications:

Education
  • A bachelor's degree in the biological sciences is required. A degree majoring in neuroscience, molecular biology, or cell biology is strongly preferred.
  • Previous hands-on laboratory experience is required. Significant laboratory experience (ideally at least 1 year) obtained during undergraduate studies is acceptable.


Experience
  • Experience with standard molecular biology techniques would be a plus.
  • Experience with immunohistochemistry and microscopy would be a plus.
  • Experience working with Drosophila and/or mice as model organisms would be a plus.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills, prioritization skills, and time management skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail with ability to maintain accurate records of experiments and procedures.
  • Proficient computer skills (PC or Mac, Microsoft Office Suite, etc.)
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Ability to work well both independently and as part of a larger team.
  • Ability to interact positively and collaborate with all levels of staff.
  • Ability to work efficiently, be adaptable, and be self-motivated.


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.

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.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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