
Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147
Open Chemistry is a collaborative research group whose mission is to produce and distribute small-molecule research tools to enablediscoveryscience around the world. Open Chemistry is associated with the Lavis Lab located at the Janelia Research Campus, a world-class research institution supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. For more information about Open Chemistry and the Lavis Lab, please visit https://www.janelia.org/lab/lavis-lab
About the role:
In this role, you will support the vision of Open Chemistry by designing and synthesizing fluorescent dyes and other small-molecule tools for biological research.You’llspend most of your time carrying out multistep synthesis and characterization of small-molecule organic compounds. This role also involves aliquoting compounds for world-wide sharing, sostrong organizational skills and attention to detail are important. This would be an excellent role for a recentbachelor’s degree-level graduate in the sciences who wants to spend 1–2 years in a dynamic research environment beforegraduateschool. Some experience in organic synthesis is desired but not essential—we will teach you what you need to know!
About Open Chemistry:
Members of the Open Chemistry team are embedded in the Lavis Lab, a leader in using organic chemistry tobuild tools for biological research More information can be found here: https://www.janelia.org/lab/lavis-lab
What we provide:
A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
One-on-one mentorship relationship with a senior researcher in the lab.
A team that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment of collaboration.
Whatyou’lldo:
Carryout multistep syntheses of organic molecules including reaction setup, work-up, purification, and analysis of products. May work with biochemical samples such as DNA, RNA, or protein samples for experimental purposes.
Collect, record,organizeand verify the accuracy of data in a laboratory notebook. Use software applications to assemble, formatdataand/or perform statistical analysis for eventual publication.
Analyze data, formulateconclusionsand createappropriate statisticalpresentations, including graphs and charts, and prepare and presentwritten ororal progress reportsregardingstudies.
Prepare, aliquot, andmaintaindye stocks for their distribution to research labs worldwide as part of HHMI’s commitment to open science.
Energetically interact with other Janelia scientists with the goal ofinitiatingcollaborative projectsregardingthe use and implementation of molecular research tools.
Configure,operate, andmaintainlaboratory apparatus and instruments.
Order chemicals, reagents, andotherlaboratory supplies as needed.
Participate in and actively contribute to laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
Conduct literature reviews applicable to research areas.
What you bring:
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field isrequired
Completion of college-level organic chemistry course and lab.
Undergraduate research experience in chemistry or a related discipline is preferred.
Experience with multi-step organic synthesis is preferred.
Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational skills and time management skills.
Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.
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 Range
Tech I: $18.40 (minimum) - $23.03 (midpoint) - $29.93 (maximum)
Tech II: $45,760.00 (minimum) - $57,200.00 (midpoint) - $74,360.00 (maximum)
Pay Type:
Tech I: Hourly
Tech II: Annual
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.
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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.
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.