Primary Work Address: 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139
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: https://biology.mit.edu/profile/h-robert-horvitz
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.
Founded in 1953, HHMI invests in scientists at all career stages who make discoveries that advance human health and our fundamental understanding of biology. The institution also supports innovative approaches to science education and public engagement to energize the next generation of scientists, and to foster public appreciation for science. HHMI advances pathbreaking science at more than 60 host institutions across the US and at our Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia, where — since its founding in 2006 — Janelia researchers have made discoveries and developed cutting-edge tools that have reimagined what's possible in science.
