Research Technician II - Palmiter Lab

Primary Work Address: Health Science Building, Seattle, WA, 98195-7370

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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're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

The laboratory of Dr. Richard Palmiter at the University of Washington is seeking a dynamic, driven, and meticulous Research Technician II to join the team. The Palmiter lab investigates the neural circuits that control innate behaviors. Dr. Palmiter and his team use mouse genetic models and viral gene transfer to study neural circuits in specific brain regions. Their goals are to visualize the activity of relevant neurons, determine where their axons project, and evaluate the behavioral and physiological consequences of activating or inhibiting those neurons. They also aim to identify downstream targets of neurons and discern how they are involved in responding to various threats, including pain, itch, and food poisoning. More information on the lab can be found on our website: https://sites.uw.edu/biochemistry/faculty/richard-palmiter-2/

About the Research Technician II role:

• A supportive and interactive work environment to strengthen your skills as a scientist.
• Joining the vibrant University of Washington research community.
• Training in science writing and communication.
• Direct mentorship while also working collaboratively as part of a team.
• Opportunities for professional and educational development and growth, including assistance in preparing for graduate school applications and interviews.
• Contributing to exciting research projects with potential for authorship on research papers and the opportunity to present original work at scientific meetings.
• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
• Full access to HHMI's on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars, led by members of our learning and organization development team.

• Learn stereotaxic surgery in mice and become IACUC-certified to perform surgery independently.
• Inject adeno-associated viruses into specific brain regions of Cre-driver lines of mice.
• Perform experiments related to pain aimed at delineating the consequences of neural manipulations.
• Collect and analyze data and preserve it in a form that can be retrieved by other lab members.
• Euthanize mice and prepare brain sections for verification of viral placement and/or in situ hybridization or immunohistochemistry.
• Contribute to lab meetings with journal presentations, data sharing and discussion.
• Participate in the preparation of manuscripts related to your experiments.

• A bachelor's degree in the biological sciences or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience is required.
• Prior work performing experiments with mice in a research laboratory environment is required.
• Familiarity with chemogenetics, optogenetics, and/or imaging techniques is expected.
• Ability to draft routine reports and keep accurate records of work performed.
• Desire to seek opportunities to increase skills and expertise.
• Ability to learn complex tasks with general instruction.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and high attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and teamwork skills.