Research Technician B

The Research Technician works directly with other biomedical scientists in the Departments of Developmental and Molecular Biology. This position is designed to ensure proper and effective operations of the Di Cristofano's Laboratory, with the overall goal of utilizing in vivo and ex vivo systems to develop and test rationally designed innovative therapies for advanced thyroid cancer.

Mouse colony management (40%)

Manage a colony of genetically engineered mice encompassing over a dozen different mutant alleles and their combinations. This task requires understanding of mouse biology and genetics, ability to keep detailed records, and knowledge of humane tail snip collection from live mice.

Perform detailed genotyping of each mouse in the colony to ensure the production and maintenance of the required strains for the ongoing experiments in the laboratory. This task requires knowledge of DNA extraction techniques, PCR-based amplification methods, and gel electrophoresis followed by densitometric imaging.

The candidate will follow up the tumor-prone strains, identifying in a timely manner sick mice for follow-up analysis, euthanasia, and tissue collection. This task requires knowledge of mouse normal and pathological anatomy, understanding of tissue handling and preservation for different procedures (imaging, biochemistry, RNA extraction).

Cell culture studies (30%)

Under minimal supervision, perform cell culture and execute drug dose/response experiments as assigned. This task requires knowledge of molecular and cellular biology research methodologies.

In vivo preclinical experiments (10%)

Under minimal supervision, perform experimental therapeutics experiments as assigned. This task requires knowledge of drug handling and preparation for administration, as well as knowledge of tumor measurement via electronic caliper, drug administration via oral gavage and intraperitoneal injection.

Laboratory assistance (20%)

When necessary, the candidate will evaluate existing equipment and supplies to ensure proper completion of scheduled experiments. In addition, the candidate will maintain freezer inventories of cryopreserved cells and reagents.

• Required to have at least a Bachelor’s Degree in a related science or equivalent skills and related experience, and zero to two years of related experience.

• Bachelor's Degree in Cell/Molecular Biology or a B.A. degree with a major/minor in Biology, Biochemistry or other life science related area desirable.

• Experience with handling of mice highly desirable.
• Good organizational and communication skills are essential.