Research Technician III - Jin Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discoveryand sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As abiomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports avibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, andprofessionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals ofbiology and building an open, inclusive future for science. Research TechnicianIII to join Dr. Xin Jin's lab at Scripps Research in LaJolla, California. The Jin lab is investigating how physiology and genetics impact brain function to understand how these distinct influences converge in the developing brain. To tackle these questions, they combine in vivo CRISPR screening with single-cell multi-omics, spatial genomics, and chemical biology tools. Their work is deeply collaborative, both within the lab and across disciplines, and bridges cutting-edge neurotechnology with fundamental questions in brain development. This integration of tool-building and mechanistic insight positions them to uncover how diverse inputs shape the brain’s trajectory in health and disease. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting About the Research Technician III role: As the Research Technician III, you will support studies using genomic tools to investigate tissue development and homeostasis. This position will involve mouse handling, molecular biology, genomics, cell culture, and single-cell sequencing-related workflows. The successful candidate will work both independently and collaboratively to perform experiments, maintain accurate records, troubleshoot protocols, and help generate high-quality data for ongoing research projects. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who is passionate about the lab’s work and looking for a stable, longer-term (ideally 3+ years) career experience. What we provide: An energetic, dynamic, and fun lab team that values innovation,inclusion, scientific rigor, and collaboration. Generous and stable research funding from HHMI. Joining the vibrant Scripps research community. Career growth, skill building, and professional development. Opportunities to be mentored by Dr. Jin and/or senior members of the team. Opportunities for authorship/co-authorship on research publications. A competitive compensation package with comprehensive healthand wellness benefits. What you’ll do: Perform mouse-related laboratory work, including handling,husbandry coordination, colony tracking, genotyping, tissuedissection/collection, and molecular analysis, in support ofstudies on brain development and neurodevelopmental diseasemechanisms. Assist with CRISPR-based perturbation experiments, includingreagent preparation, viral/vector-related workflows, samplecollection, and genomic analysis. Carry out core molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNAextraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, andpreparation of sequencing-related materials. Support single-cell genomics workflows, including nuclei/cellpreparation, quality control, library preparation support, andsample submission for sequencing. Maintain mammalian cell cultures using sterile technique,including passaging, transfection/transduction support, andmonitoring of cell health. Prepare, organize, and validate experimental reagents, such asplasmids, oligos, guide RNA libraries, buffers, and cell culturemedia. Record experimental procedures, sample information, and resultsaccurately in laboratory notebooks and shared databases. Analyze and summarize experimental results, includinggenotyping outcomes, QC metrics, and molecular assay data, andtroubleshoot routine issues related to sample quality, molecularassays, sequencing preparation, or cell culture conditions. Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and reagentinventories, and coordinate with lab members on experimentaltimelines, animal use, sequencing submissions, and sample trackingto ensure efficient day-to-day lab operations. Adhere to institutional biosafety, animal research, andlaboratory compliance policies, including required documentationand training. What you bring: A bachelor’s degree in the life sciences is required.Candidates with master’s degrees are also welcome to apply and willbe considered. A minimum of 4+ years of relevant research experience in anacademic laboratory environment is required. Experience in aneuroscience lab is strongly preferred. Prior experience with mouse handling, mouse colony management,tissue collection, genotyping, and/or related animal research workis required. Experience with standard molecular biology techniques such asDNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, orpreparation of sequencing-related samples. Experience with mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, cellpassaging, transfection, viral transduction, or cell-basedassays. Familiarity with genomics or single-cell sequencing workflowswould be a plus. Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols, maintainorganized records, and accurately track samples and reagents. Ability to work under minimal supervision, troubleshoot routineexperimental issues, and adapt standard procedures whenneeded. Willingness to work with mouse models and comply withinstitutional animal research, biosafety, and laboratory safetyrequirements. Strong verbal and written communications skills, interpersonalskills, and collaboration skills. Ability to contribute to fostering and maintaining a positive,thriving lab culture. Physical Requirements Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extendedperiods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) orarm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for exampleusing a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word;ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to moveabout workspace. The position requires mobility, including theability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as alaptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure tomalodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxicchemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances orother hazardous materials. Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essentialduties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests forreasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individualbasis. Please Note: this job description sets forth the job’s principal duties,responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed asan exhaustive statement, however. unless they begin with the word 'may', the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described aboveare '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 inmany ways for their contributions to our mission, includingcompetitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans,time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visitour Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. Hiring Pay Range $56,400.00 - $70,500.00 Pay Type: Annual The posted range reflects HHMI's good faith estimate of the anticipated hiring salary range for this role at the time of posting. Actual hiring compensation is determined by a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and internal equity. HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employmenteligibility of all new hires. #J-18808-Ljbffr Howard Hughes Medical Institute