Research Technologist

The Department of Ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute is seeking a Research Technologist who will perform cutting-edge research into the in vitro culture of retinal organoids and stem cell derived photoreceptor cells. Specifically, the role serves to (a) maintain our mouse colony; (b) maintain our large animal surgery platform including surgical inventory and supplies and operating room assistance; (c) assist with cell culture and gene transfection, (d) perform other laboratory techniques including histopathology, PCR, RNA and DNA isolation from animal tissue, and Western blots, e) maintain experimental record keeping and backups, and (f) basic data entry and analysis.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Use basic science knowledge to perform techniques/methods of the lab in particular: molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blot, RNA and DNA isolation from animal tissue).
• Maintain mouse colony and breeding - maintain husbandry records, attend to urgent notifications regarding sick animals, coordinate the culling of non-utilized animals, collect ear clips and/or other tissue samples and genotyping, maintain genetic records.
• Support the team in their work with animal care/veterinary staff and monitor the health of animals during experiments, with an emphasis on ensuring adherence to IACUC guidelines.
• Collecting eyes and other tissue samples from experimental mice, blocking and processing tissue samples, tissue sectioning, staining for immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy, performing light and fluorescence microscopy.
• Collect data, organize/collate data entry, ensure multiple backups, and perform basic data analysis.
• Participate in regular lab and small group meetings including presenting status updates to the group.
• Report findings in oral and written formats.
• Identify and resolve common problems involved in routine research assays.
• Recommend revisions to experimental methods based upon observations of the data and troubleshooting.
• Prepare, test, and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
• Increase own skill base and knowledge of lab research and relevant assays.
• Perform related laboratory maintenance, participate in cleaning rotation of common laboratory space/equipment and monitor inventory of supplies and orders upon receipt.
• Interact with faculty, lab, animal facilities and administrative staff, students, postdoctoral fellows, and outside vendors.

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.

• Some related post-undergraduate work experience preferred.

• Experience with molecular biology assays (PCR, Western blot, RNA and DNA isolation from animal tissue).
• Animal care and husbandry experience, particularly mice.

Classified Title: Research Technologist
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CC
Starting Salary Range: $15.70 - $26.25 HRLY (Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Exempt Status:Non-Exempt
Location:School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Oph Retina Service
Personnel area: School of Medicine