Research Technician II- King Lab

Primary Work Address: 2033 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA, 94720-3140

Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

Are you interested in working on a fascinating biological question in a rigorous, stimulating, and supportive scientific environment? The lab of Professor Nicole King at the University of California, Berkeley, is opening a position of Research Technician II to provide technical support to ongoing research projects. Our lab studies choanoflagellates, the closest living relatives of animals, to understand animal origins and the molecular mechanisms underpinning host-microbe interactions (see: https://kinglab.berkeley.edu/ ).

The ideal candidate should be passionate about biological research, eager to learn, and ready to be an integral and reliable part of our research team. As a valued member of our team, you will learn the intellectual background of the lab’s research by reading papers, asking questions and participate in weekly laboratory meetings and regular check-ins with lab supervisors. We require excellent communication, note-taking, and organizational skills. The candidate will learn exciting techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and fluorescence microscopy. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about animal origins, genetics, evolution, cell biology, and protistology and to develop essential research capabilities, including designing experiments, analyzing data, troubleshooting experiments, and developing new tools.

As a prerequisite to joining the lab, the candidate should already have significant experience in routine molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, plasmid purification, etc.), sterile technique, and cell culture (e.g., bacterial, plant, or animal cell lines).

What we provide:

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

• A close-knit lab community where mentorship and growth are prioritized.

• Opportunities for professional development including the potential to contribute to research publications and become involved with a variety of different projects based on your interests and drive.

• Hands-on training to learn a variety of techniques.

What you’ll do:

• Grow choanoflagellate cells and bacteria using sterile technique and various culture conditions.

• Culture media preparation.

• Apply routine molecular biology methods (PCR, molecular cloning, DNA and RNA preparation) as well as innovative techniques (CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing, fluorescence microscopy) to study choanoflagellate biology.

• Use flow cytometry to isolate single-cell clones for genotyping.

• Image choanoflagellate cultures using different microscopy approaches (widefield, confocal, and electron microscopy).

• Keep meticulous laboratory records and communicate efficiently and transparently about the experiments.

• Contribute to laboratory upkeep and generally support research efforts of laboratory members.

What you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, bioengineering, or a related field; Master’s degree a plus.

• Two years of related research experience working in a laboratory setting.

• Knowledge of fundamental principles of genetics and molecular biology gained through coursework and prior laboratory experience.

• Experience with molecular biology techniques, flow cytometry, microscopy, tissue culture, and/or sterile techniques.

• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and perform a variety of new techniques.

• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills.

• Detail-oriented and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction.

• Ability to follow instructions with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.

Application Instructions:

Please attach the following information in a single PDF document as part of your application.

• Résumé emphasizing prior research experience

• Contact information for three professional references

• Transcript of undergraduate or graduate school courses (unofficial is acceptable)

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 and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

Compensation Range

$21.56 (minimum) - $26.97 (midpoint) - $35.05 (maximum)

Pay Type:

Hourly

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 equity 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.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer