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Research Technician- Scanziani Lab

We are currently looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Research Technician to work in the lab of Dr. Massimo Scanziani at the University of California, San Francisco. The Scanziani lab uses rodents to study basic neural mechanisms of sensory processing. Towards this goal, the lab uses in vivo and in vitro electrophysiological, imaging, and anatomical techniques as well as behavioral approaches. More information about the Scanziani lab can be found by visiting https://www.scanzianilab.org/index.html


About the role:

The ideal candidate is a professional, collegial individual who will enjoy working with mice, can work well independently and as part of a larger team, and is looking to grow professionally while supporting multiple projects in a medium-sized collaborative academic laboratory. The chosen candidate will be responsible for genotyping, handling, and breeding necessary to maintain the Scanziani lab’s colony of mice and provide them for various experiments in the lab along with histology, IF staining, and performing small surgeries and brain dissections. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent college graduate who would like to gain a couple more years of academic research experience before applying to graduate school.


What we provide:


  • A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
  • Opportunities to attend Scientific Conferences.
  • One on one mentorship relationship with a senior researcher in the lab.
  • Strong potential for contribution to research publications.


What you’ll do:


  • Perform regular checks of every cage in the mouse colony to monitor health and presence of new litters.
  • Address any necessary health issues with the colony and take appropriate action in a timely manner.
  • Establish new breeding pairs of mice to fulfill experimental needs of the laboratory.
  • Read and adhere to all relevant protocols, assist with drafting animal protocol amendments and renewals, and ensure mouse health and safety by adhering to all regulatory bodies’ standards for mouse maintenance.
  • Perform PCR reactions.
  • Prepare slides (vibratome and cryostat) and antibody staining
  • Perform small surgeries and brain dissections on mice.


What you bring:


  • A bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related discipline is required.
  • Previous hands-on academic laboratory experience along with a solid understanding of molecular biology techniques (PCR, genotyping, etc.) is strongly preferred. Significant laboratory experience obtained during undergraduate studies is acceptable and will be considered.
  • Previous experience with immunofluorescent staining would be a plus.
  • Superior verbal and written communication skills.
  • Superior prioritization skills, attention to detail and time management skills.
  • Strong sense of initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving.
  • Proficient computer skills (comfort with PC or Mac, Microsoft Office Suite, etc.).
  • Ability and willingness to learn new techniques and skills.
  • Comfort and willingness to handle and work regularly with live mice.

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. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer