Research Technician - Sehgal Lab

Research Technician I

The Sehgal Lab, led by Dr. Amita Sehgal at the University of Pennsylvania, focuses on the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying sleep and circadian rhythms. The lab uses a combination of model organisms, including Drosophila and mouse models, to better understand how biological clocks regulate behavior and physiology.

The team is highly collaborative and provides a strong training environment for early-career scientists interested in gaining hands-on research experience.

The Research Technician I will support ongoing research focused on the genetic and molecular analysis of sleep and circadian rhythms. This role is ideal for a recent graduate seeking 2–3 years of hands-on research experience prior to pursuing a Master's, PhD, or MD.

The position offers exposure to a wide range of experimental techniques and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to active research projects in a dynamic lab environment. It is best suited for early-career candidates looking to gain research experience before pursuing advanced education.

The ideal start timeline for this position is July 2026.

Application Instructions

Please include the following when applying:

• A copy of your CV with your GPA listed at the top
• A list of three professional references, including a brief description of your relationship with each

What You'll Get

• Access to seminars and academic programming at UPenn
• Opportunities to contribute to research and publications
• Participation in lab retreats and networking opportunities
• Exposure to a highly collaborative academic research environment
• Comprehensive benefits package

What You'll Do

• Assist with day-to-day research activities and support lab members with experiments
• Perform Drosophila and/or mouse husbandry, including breeding and genotyping
• Conduct behavioral assays and assist with data collection and analysis
• Perform molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, and other assays
• Support tissue culture and sample preparation for histology
• Utilize microscopy for imaging and analysis as needed
• Assist with general lab operations, including preparing media/reagents and receiving supplies
• Collaborate closely with senior research staff on experimental setup and execution

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences or a related field required
• 0–1 year of research experience (undergraduate research strongly preferred)

Technical Skills

• Background in molecular biology and/or cell biology
• Experience with PCR, Western blotting, or similar assays
• Experience with microscopy preferred
• Experience working with animal models (mouse or Drosophila), including breeding/genotyping, preferred
• Exposure to behavioral assays is a plus

Core Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced lab environment
• Highly organized with attention to detail
• Goal-oriented, with interest in pursuing graduate or medical school
• Motivated, proactive, and eager to learn new techniques

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.

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

$16.73 (minimum) - $20.94 (midpoint) - $27.21 (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

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