Research Technician - Horvitz Lab

Primary Work Address: 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139 Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account. About the Role: The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we are unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science. We are actively seeking a Research Technician to join the laboratory of Dr. H. Robert Horvitz at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA. This individual will join an integrative team studying molecular mechanisms of cellular fate determination and programmed cell death using the nematode roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The team uses genetic, molecular, cell biological, and behavioral approaches. More information can be found at the following website: Please note: This is a fixed-term position with an anticipated end date not to exceed August 31, 2027, aligned with current HHMI funding for the lab. Application Instructions Please include the following as part of your application: A copy of your resume and a cover letter. Your university transcript (an unofficial transcript is acceptable if an official version is not available) A list of three professional references, including names, phone numbers, and email addresses What We Provide A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits The opportunity to join a vibrant research community at MIT Close collaboration with an interactive, multidisciplinary team of scientists, with opportunities to contribute to research publications Career mentorship to support professional growth and help you achieve your long-term goals An excellent opportunity for individuals considering graduate school, with potential for meaningful research contributions and authorship. What You Will Do: Mutagenesis screens C. elegans strain creation (genetic crosses, CRISPR, transgenesis, PCR genotyping, etc.) Molecular cloning Microscopy (e.g., imaging fluorescent proteins in C. elegans) Data analysis (image processing, quantification, statistics, etc.) C. elegans husbandry (animal maintenance, etc.) Assist with general laboratory maintenance What You Bring: Bachelor’s degree, with a strong academic record Completed coursework in biology, statistics, genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or cell biology. Experience in a research laboratory beyond coursework (e.g., experience gained as an undergraduate) and ambition to become a professional biological researcher. Demonstrable organizational, critical-thinking, time-management, and verbal and written communication skills; attention to detail, including ability to follow protocols and rigorous documentation skills necessary in a professional laboratory setting; ability to work both with others and independently; and awareness of and ability to follow safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment. Preferred: experience with molecular cloning; basic computational skills for data processing and presentation (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, ImageJ, etc.); experience with C. elegans would be helpful, but is not essential. 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 $18.40 (minimum) - $23.03 (midpoint) - $29.93 (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 consistency 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 We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires. Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because we believe in the power of individuals to make breakthroughs over time. Why HHMI To move science forward we need a diverse collection of talents, expertise, and backgrounds in scientific research and science education, as well as communications, finance, human resources, information technology, investments, law, and operations. At HHMI, we encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment where employees can do their best work. What makes us strong is the diversity of our perspectives. We work to promote a culture of inclusion in our work environments and across the greater scientific community. To find more information about us and the steps we're taking to make HHMI a more inclusive organization, visit our About Us page. Your best option for consideration in our career opportunities is to apply directly via our HHMI Careers site. There, you will learn more about HHMI and can find information about our available roles. Contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io if you require an accommodation related to completing the job application. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations. Applicants have rights under federal employment laws. For more information about your rights as an applicant, please review these posters: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Know Your Rights, and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA).