Research Specialist, Spatial Transcriptomics - Pe'er Lab

We are currently seeking a creative and self-motivated Research Specialist to work in the Pe'er Lab at Memorial Sloan Kettering Institute. The Pe'er lab combines single cell technologies, genomic datasets and machine learning algorithms to address fundamental questions in biomedical science. Empowered by recent breakthrough technologies like massive parallel single cell RNA-sequencing, we ask questions such as: How do multi-cellular organisms develop from a single cell, resulting in the vast diversity of progenitor and terminal cell types? How does a cell's regulatory circuit control the dynamics of signal processing and how do these circuits rewire over the course of development? How does an ensemble of cells function together to execute a multi-cellular response, such as an immune response to pathogen or cancer? We will also address more medically oriented questions such as: How do regulatory circuits go awry in disease? What is the consequence of intra-tumor heterogeneity? Can we characterize the tumor immune eco-system to gain a better understanding of when or why immunotherapy works or does not work? A key goal is to use this characterization of the tumor immune eco-system to personalize immunotherapy. More information can be found on the lab's .

In this position, you will be implementing emerging spatial transcriptomics technologies in support of spatial projects in the lab. You will work under the direct supervision of the head of the single cell innovation lab at MSKCC, with firsthand knowledge of the technology and significant expertise in molecular biology, imaging and technology development. You'll be expected to grow in the role, taking on additional responsibilities and learning new skills.

What You'll Do:

• Working closely with the team and collaborators to implement emerging spatial transcriptomics technologies in support of spatial projects within the lab

• Become the lab's go to expert on multiplexed RNA in-situ hybridization (smFISH and eventually MerFISH) - measuring subcellular gene expression in the spatial context of mouse and human tissue sections

• Develop, optimize, and test tissue preparation and RNA probe panels

• Carry out confocal-based image acquisition

• Generate count matrices that enumerate distinct RNA species in each cell

• Learn new skills such as: probe validation, tissue preparation, identifying regions of interest, as well as other advanced spatial transcriptomics assays and basic data processing

• Contribute to writing papers in collaboration with the other accomplished scientists in the lab

What You Bring:

• Master's degree , or a related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.

  • PhD preferred

• At least 2-3 years of experience working hands on in a molecular biology research lab

• Understanding of smFISH with a desire to develop new MerFISH methodologies

• Advanced microscopy skills (e.g. confocal)

• Prior experience with transcriptomics an enormous plus

• Motivation to learn new topics and improve their craft

• An ability to work in a team and communicate cross-functionally

• An ability to find solutions independently

• Strong interest in the group's research and excitement to contribute

The salary for this role in the city of New York is $67,390 (minimum) - $84,200 (midpoint) - ($109,480 maximum).

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant market data. HHMI considers a candidates' education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new Research Specialist I is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

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).

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 and Benefits

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