Research Technician, Histology and Imaging - Sternson Lab

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.

We are currently seeking a Research Technician to join the lab of Dr. Scott Sternson at The University of California, San Diego (UCSD). The Sternson lab's research investigates how the brain controls appetite. They study multiple circuits throughout the brain as well as the interactions between neural systems that mediate hunger, thirst, and stress. Critical to this effort, the lab develops cutting-edge deep-brain calcium imaging methods that are integrated with spatial transcriptomic techniques to build a rigorous, systematic framework for the cellular and molecular components of the entire sequence of appetite behaviors (food-seeking, consumption, satiety). More information can be found on their website.

About the Research Technician role:
The ideal candidate is an organized, proactive professional who will support a team of postdoctoral fellows with their research projects by performing histological and imaging work in support of the lab's science. Each position within the lab makes valued contributions that drive science forward. We are ideally targeting someone who is enthusiastic and passionate about research and would take pride in the work they do within a cutting-edge scientific lab.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking for a robust career experience of at least 2 years before moving on to the next stage of their educational or professional path.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Joining the vibrant UCSD research community.

• Full access to HHMI's on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars, led by members of our learning and organization development team.

• Opportunities for mentorship and professional development.

• The potential to contribute to research publications.

What you'll do:

• Develop and perform new high-precision RNA-FISH protocols in large tissue volumes

• Perform selective plane illumination microscopy ("light sheet" imaging)

• Collect multi-terabyte image data sets and conduct analysis

• Assist with cell culture work, as well as perform basic molecular biology techniques in support of experiments within the lab

• Prepare and present written or oral progress reports concerning studies, including assembly, organization, and interpretation of data.

• Present data to the entire lab (lab meetings happen ~1-2 times a week).

• Train others in technical protocols.

• May assist scientists and technicians by performing variousinvestigative procedures and operatingscientific equipment.

• Eventually take on protocol design and other strategic experimental work within the lab

• Attend laboratory meetings and planning sessions

What you bring:

• A bachelor's degree in life science is required.

  • A master's degree would be a plus but is not required.

• At least one year of prior experience working in a hands-on academic research lab is required.

• Prior experience with any type of histology work (RNA-FISH or in brain preferred, but not required)

  • Prior experience with histology in brain tissue would be a strong plus.

• Extensive experience with confocal imaging or selective plane illumination microscopy ("light-sheet" imaging) is preferred.

• Strong computer skills are required.

  • Experience with ImageJ and/or any programming experience would be a plus.

• Ability to keep accurate records of work performed.

• Desire to actively seek opportunities to increase skills and expertise.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to collaborate well with other team members.

• Ability to learn complex tasks with general instruction.

• Ability to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques.

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

Pay Type:

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