Research Technician, Mouse Colony - Palmiter Lab

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’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

The Palmiter laboratory at the University of Washington is seeking a dynamic, driven, and meticulous Research Technician to join their group. Richard Palmiter is interested in the neural circuits that control innate behaviors. Palmiter and his team use mouse genetic models and viral gene transfer to study neural circuits in specific brain regions. Their goals are to visualize the activity of relevant neurons, determine where their axons project, and evaluate the behavioral and physiological consequences of activating or inhibiting those neurons. They also aim to identify downstream targets of neurons and discern how they are involved in responding to various threats, including pain, itch, and food poisoning. More information on the lab can be found on their website:

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who will take responsibility for maintaining a mouse colony (about 300 cages) of transgenic mice with direct supervision by the head of the lab. The individual will collect, verify, record, and compile data and information in support of research. This individual will contribute to research results on an ongoing basis. The lab is ideally looking for someone who can commit to staying for 2 years before moving on to the next chapter of their career or educational journey.

This role is expected to work a total of 20 hours per week . The lab has flexibility to work with the chosen candidate to find a mutually agreeable work schedule.

What we provide:

• Training in animal (mouse) husbandry, including IACUC training and AALAC certification.

• Training in science writing and communication.

• 1:1 mentorship while also working collaboratively as part of a team.

• Opportunities for professional and educational development and growth, including assistance in preparing for graduate school applications and interviews.

• Contributing to exciting research projects with potential for authorship on research papers and the opportunity to present original work at scientific meetings.

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

What you’ll do:

• Set up breeding cages of mice, wean siblings, and cull mice not needed for experiments.

• Collect tail DNA samples and prepare DNA for genotyping, which involves enzymatic and chemical extraction.

• Maintain a spreadsheet of the mice in all the cages including the number of mice, sex, genotype, date of birth, etc.

• Respond to requests from lab members to expand the colony of certain mice needed for experiments.

• Transfer mice to other labs at the university and other places.

• Assist scientists and technicians by performing various research procedures.

• Help maintaining supplies used by the lab.

• Learn how the various lines of mice contribute to the lab effort by attending and participating in lab meetings and reading the literature. 

• Opportunity to be involved in mouse behavioral experiments. 

What you bring:

• Bachelor of Science degree in the biological sciences or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience is required.

• Prior work handling mice and maintaining a mouse colony preferred. Some related laboratory experience helpful.

• Interest in neurobiology of behavior is a plus.

• Generally experienced in job duties and in the principles and practices associated with those duties with an understanding of the underlying scientific principles.

• Ability to draft routine reports and keep accurate records of work performed.

• Actively seeks opportunities to increase skills and expertise.

• Able to learn complex tasks with general instruction. 

Compensation Range:

Research Technician I (hourly) – $19.24 (minimum) - $24.09 (midpoint) - $31.29 (maximum)

Research Technician II (hourly) – $23.00 (minimum) - $28.75 (midpoint) - $37.38 (maximum)

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. 

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. #LI-NG1