Research Specialist II - Molecular Genomics

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147

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The Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders innovate research practices and technologies to solve biology's deepest mysteries. HHMI launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually enriching environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work. We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community.

About the role:

The Molecular Genomics team is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Specialist II to join a rapidly evolving, service‑oriented laboratory that supports a wide range of molecular biology and genome‑engineering projects. In this role, you will contribute to genome‑editing workflows and other core services, with a primary focus on strengthening the mutation‑detection pipeline, which requires managing high sample numbers and performing detailed genomic analyses. The ideal candidate brings strong critical‑thinking skills, technical proficiency in molecular biology workflows, and the flexibility to support multiple projects in a dynamic environment. Engagement with the broader genomics community and an interest in staying current with emerging technologies will be essential to success in this role.

About the department:

The Molecular Genomics Team provides expert support for routine and advanced molecular biology, including genome-engineering design in cells and fish, mutation detection, custom cloning, and plasmid purification.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
• A supportive team environment that promotes collaboration and inclusion.
• The opportunity to engage with world-class researchers and contribute to impactful science.
• Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops.
• Professional memberships in genomics and core facility organizations.
• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, a free gym, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and a convenient shuttle bus service.

• Process genome‑edited samples from tissues or cell lines by designing and optimizing project‑specific assays; performing PCR, Sanger sequencing, and amplicon sequencing; analyzing intended and unintended genomic events; and generating clear, interpretive reports.
• Support routine molecular biology services, including plasmid purification and custom cloning.
• Provide operational oversight to support and maintain a well‑organized, service‑focused laboratory environment.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of new services and technologies, such as digital PCR, laboratory automation, and additional nucleic acid purification methods.
• Maintain rigorous quality control standards and ensure accurate, detailed documentation of all project activities.
• Collaborate closely with team members, researchers, and shared resources to coordinate experiments, provide updates, and deliver timely results.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in genome engineering and genomics, and participate in user groups to remain informed about applications and advancements that are valuable to projects.

• Master of Science in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
• Minimum 3 years of experience working with genome engineering technologies.
• Minimum 5 years of experience working in a shared resource/core facility setting.
• Strong technical expertise in molecular biology, including PCR, cloning, and sequencing workflows.
• Experience with genome‑editing technologies, mutation‑detection assays, and editing analysis.
• An operational and high-throughput mindset and willingness to support a dynamic, evolving laboratory environment.
• Ability to handle multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain accuracy under time constraints.
• Excellent communication skills and a commitment to providing high-quality service to researchers.